Release Day for Harp seal #26 017 (Virginia) -June 30, 2026

We are happy to announce that Harp seal #26-017 (Virginia) has returned back home to the ocean! Fully recovered and weighing a healthy 117lbs, she was tagged #19 on her right rear flipper for future identification and released at the North Brigantine Natural Area. Every seal's rehabilitation journey is different, and this seal is certainly no exception. Along the way, she had many people who stepped up for her, all playing an important role in her recovery. The approximately two year old Harp seal was found stranded in Virginia Beach on St. Patrick's Day, very sick and lethargic. Our colleagues at the Virginia Aquarium rescued her and began initial treatment at their facility while a plan to transfer the seal to New Jersey was put into action. Transporting the patient here took careful consideration, coordination and teamwork. Our colleagues from the MERR Institute assisted with the seal’s journey through Maryland and Delaware, crossing the Delaware Bay courtesy of the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. Once she arrived at the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, she began treatment for a lung infection, malnutrition, dehydration, bilateral ear infections and a fractured tooth. Our friends from Shreiber School of Veterinary Medicine at Rowan University assisted on this complex rehabilitation case, providing advanced diagnostic imaging to help guide her treatment plan. The Stranding Team, along with the help of our dedicated interns and volunteers, facilitated the intensive care required to bring this beautiful Harp seal back to full health. All of this is of course was made possible by YOU, our generous supporters who make sure that MMSC has the resources to provide expert veterinary care, medication, food, and a comfortable, safe environment where these animals can heal and recover. Our supporters provide second chances for sick and injured seals to taste freedom again. We are the hands that do the work, but YOU are the heart. Thank you for your support, and for your role in bringing this beautiful seal back home!