BRADLEY BEACH, NJ – A male harbor seal rescued last week in Bradley Beach remains in guarded condition as veterinarians continue intensive treatment for severe lung parasites and multiple medical issues, the Marine Mammal Stranding Center said Thursday.
The seal, the organization’s first patient of the season, is receiving critical care at the center’s hospital. While he began eating on his own over the weekend, officials said his appetite has been inconsistent, requiring technicians to step in with assisted feedings to maintain nutrition.
The animal’s most serious condition involves an extremely high parasite load in his lungs. Staff said the seal is frequently coughing up lungworms and is being closely monitored for pneumonia, a potentially life-threatening complication associated with lungworm infestations.
Veterinary teams are also treating an open wound on the seal’s belly. Officials determined the injury is not recent, noting granulation tissue around the wound edges, and said it is showing signs of improvement with ongoing treatment.
In addition, the seal is being treated for a lice infestation. While typically minimal in healthy animals, the parasites can cause skin damage and secondary infections in animals already weakened, according to the center.
- Male harbor seal remains in guarded condition after Bradley Beach stranding
- Severe lungworm infestation is the primary medical concern
- Additional treatment includes wound care and parasite management
The Marine Mammal Stranding Center said the seal faces a long recovery and that his prognosis will become clearer in the coming days. Staff thanked supporters who have followed his progress since the rescue and said the veterinary and rescue teams continue to monitor him closely around the clock.
