Allenhurst, NJ – A dramatic rescue unfolded at the Allenhurst Fishing Pier on Monday at 1:30 p.m., when the Marine Mammal Stranding Center (MMSC) responded to a call about a seal trapped inside the jetty. The Allenhurst Police Department quickly secured the area, ensuring the safety of the rescue team and onlookers as they awaited the arrival of MMSC’s experts.
A female Grey seal, found wedged between rocks and in distress, prompted an urgent rescue operation by the MMSC. The seal, attempting to rest on the jetty, had slipped and become hopelessly stuck, facing potential drowning with the tide rising. Weighing 65 pounds and displaying signs of agitation, the seal posed a unique challenge to the Stranding Team due to her size and potential for injury.
Thanks to the skilled efforts of Stranding Coordinator Jay Pagel and Stranding Technician Jacob Alexander, the seal was safely extricated from the jetty. Despite being trapped for an unknown period, the seal suffered only minor injuries. Following a medical examination at MMSC, she was deemed healthy and released back into the ocean on Tuesday, February 20, marking a successful end to a potentially tragic situation.
This rescue, noted by Stranding Coordinator Pagel as one of the most challenging in his 30-year career, highlights the importance of community vigilance and the expertise of rescue organizations. The MMSC extends its gratitude to the Allenhurst Police Department for their crucial support during the rescue operation.
