Beach Haven Gardens, NJ – A lethargic harbor seal found on the sand in Beach Haven Gardens earlier this month is now recovering under veterinary care after being transported to a local marine hospital.
The male seal was spotted on February 11 exhibiting signs of illness, including multiple small wounds and nasal discharge, according to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center. The stranding team responded and transported the animal to its facility for evaluation and treatment.
At intake, the seal, estimated to be about one year old, weighed 46.4 pounds. He was admitted into the hospital and provided critical supportive care, including tube feeding with a mixture of formula and electrolytes. Bloodwork and cultures were conducted, and a treatment plan was initiated for a respiratory infection.
The seal is currently housed in Pen 4 of the Pool House at the center and has begun eating independently, staff reported.
Weeks of care ahead before release
Harbor seals undergoing rehabilitation may remain in care for six weeks or more before they are ready to return to the wild. The center estimates that medical and rehabilitation costs average more than $3,000 per seal during a typical stay.
The harbor seal will continue receiving monitoring and treatment as veterinarians assess his progress. Staff said recovery timelines vary depending on the severity of illness and response to care.
Beachgoers who encounter stranded marine life are urged to contact trained responders rather than approach the animal. The center serves as New Jersey’s primary responder for stranded marine mammals along the state’s coastline.
- Seal found lethargic with wounds and nasal discharge on February 11
- Admitted for respiratory infection treatment and tube feeding support
- Rehabilitation may last six weeks or longer before release
No timeline has been set for the seal’s release as treatment continues.
Rehabilitation ongoing at stranding center facility
