The Mystic Aquarium Animal Rescue Team is experiencing a significant increase in entangled seals on Block Island, Rhode Island. Program manager Sarah Callan reported that 20 entangled gray seals have been identified this year alone, surpassing the typical annual numbers and deemed “alarming.” This issue arises when marine debris, such as fishing gear or balloons, becomes tightly wrapped around a seal’s neck, posing severe injury risks as the animals grow heavier.
Recently, NBC News accompanied Mystic as they collaborated with the Atlantic Marine Conservation Society and Block Island Maritime Institute to rescue seal pups. They executed strategic approaches to avoid startling the seals, quickly using bright red boards to separate an entangled pup and capture it with a net. The team efficiently conducted medical assessments and then freed the pup from the fishing net constricting its neck, avoiding the need for rehabilitation.
The team’s efforts are significant, especially following the tragic case of “Chappy,” a seal pup previously rescued from downtown New Haven who succumbed to health issues linked to plastic ingestion. Plastic pollution is estimated to kill over 100,000 marine mammals annually, emphasizing the critical nature of the team’s work.
Callan expressed concern over the increasing interactions between marine animals and human-made debris during their early life stages, linking these incidents to broader ocean health issues. Mystic Aquarium remains committed to raising awareness about these threats and continues to strive for a positive impact on marine animal conservation. The successful release of the entangled seal was a highlight, demonstrating the team’s role in giving marine animals a second chance at life.
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