The Marine Mammal Stranding Center (MMSC) has announced the sad news of the passing of the male grey seal pup that was rescued on February 7th in Ocean City. After stranding and making a quarter-mile journey down 42nd Street from the bay, the young seal was under the care of MMSC’s veterinary team for parasite treatment and a suspected respiratory infection.
Despite receiving comprehensive care, including assist feeding and supplemental nutrition to address his underweight condition, the seal pup showed a sudden and significant health decline on the evening of February 19th. Despite the staff’s immediate resuscitation attempts, the seal passed away within minutes. A full necropsy is planned to investigate the cause of the rapid decline.
The MMSC expressed deep gratitude towards their staff and veterinarian Dr. Hubert Paluch for their dedicated efforts to save the seal, as well as to the Ocean City community and everyone who supported the rescue operation. The loss has deeply affected all involved, highlighting the challenges and emotional toll of animal rescue work.