Seal Wanders onto New Jersey Roads, Rescued After Taking a Nap in Traffic
HARVEY CEDARS, N.J. — A female seal’s unexpected stroll through the streets of Harvey Cedars, New Jersey, captured local attention and prompted a coordinated rescue effort by authorities and marine experts. On Tuesday, the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of stranded marine mammals, responded after the Harvey Cedars Police Department reported a seal wandering along Long Beach Boulevard.
According to the police, the seal appeared uninjured but was found resting in the middle of the road, prompting officers and the Department of Public Works personnel to manage traffic and ensure the animal’s safety. The seal eventually made her way to Middlesex Avenue, where she settled down for a nap, seemingly unfazed by the unusual surroundings.
Marine Mammal Stranding Center rescuers arrived promptly to assess the situation. Their examination revealed the seal was not injured but appeared underweight, a condition that can signal challenges in finding food or other health issues. The center transported the seal to their Pool House facility, where she will receive rest and rehabilitation under expert care.
The Marine Mammal Stranding Center, located in Brigantine, New Jersey, has a long history of responding to marine wildlife emergencies along the Atlantic coast. Their efforts are supported by state and federal agencies, including the National Marine Fisheries Service, which oversees marine mammal protection and conservation.
Seals occasionally venture into unusual environments, sometimes due to illness, disorientation, or changes in ocean conditions. The center’s intervention is crucial in ensuring these animals receive the necessary care to recover and, when possible, return safely to their natural habitats.
Local authorities praised the quick response and cooperation between the police, public works, and marine experts, highlighting the importance of community involvement in wildlife rescue efforts. Residents are reminded to keep a safe distance from marine mammals and report any sightings to the appropriate authorities to prevent harm to both animals and people.
For more information on marine mammal rescue and conservation efforts, visit the Marine Mammal Center and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Marine Mammal Stranding Center continues to monitor the seal’s condition and will provide updates as she progresses through rehabilitation.
Leave a Reply