Grey seal rescued from lavallette beach now recovering at nj center

Juvenile found vomiting later transported for treatment and rehabilitation

Lavallette, NJ – A young grey seal found resting on a Jersey Shore beach was later rescued and taken in for treatment after showing signs of illness, according to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center.

The seal was first spotted March 18 at Plainfield Avenue beach in Lavallette. Initially appearing to be in stable condition, the animal was monitored by a certified volunteer and left undisturbed to rest, as is standard protocol.

Condition worsened overnight prompting rescue

“When the volunteer returned to check on him the following morning, there was evidence that the seal had been vomiting bile overnight,” the Marine Mammal Stranding Center said.

The juvenile seal was then transported to the organization’s facility, where it was admitted for veterinary care.

Key Points

Juvenile grey seal rescued after being found ill on Lavallette beach
Animal showed signs of vomiting before being transported for care
Seal now receiving treatment and has begun eating on its own

Seal now stable and responding to treatment

Officials said the seal weighed 53.6 pounds upon intake and received supportive care, including tube feeding with formula and electrolytes. Bloodwork and cultures were also conducted as part of treatment for a gastrointestinal illness.

The center reported the seal is now resting and has begun eating fish independently, a positive sign in its recovery.

“Seals may recover in our hospital for 6 weeks or more before they are ready to return to the wild,” the organization said, noting rehabilitation costs can exceed $3,000 per animal.

Marine Mammal Stranding center

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