MERR responds for another harp seal rescue

Visiting seals have continued to keep the Marine Education, Research and Rehabilitation Institute occupied, with the latest response March 4, when members rescued a stranded harp seal at Cape Henlopen State Park in Lewes.

The 1-year-old female had a few minor injuries and was slightly underweight but alert. “She had been eating a little bit of sand,” said MERR Executive Director Suzanne Thurman. “Harp seals are prone to doing this because they are used to licking ice and snow in their frozen ecosystem.”

Members of MERR were able to coax the seal safely into a carrier and deliver it to the National Aquarium’s triage center in Ocean City, Md., for additional care.

In the last few weeks, MERR has responded to a total of 13 seals on Delaware beaches, all of which needed rescue and five of which were harp seals, which are rather uncommon locally.

MERR has been naming seals after flowers this year and decided to name this one Snapdragon, based on her feisty attitude.

Anyone who encounters a seal resting on the beach or elsewhere should call MERR immediately at 302-228-5029, and keep a distance of at least 150 feet from the animal. Also, keep dogs on a leash for the well-being of both animals. Seals spend about half their lives on land and often exit the water to sleep. This rest is integral to their survival, regardless of their age, as females will often go for weeks without consuming food while they are nursing. Approaching seals closely not only frightens them but adds stress and may cause them to retreat into the water without getting the necessary rest.

For more information on seals or any other marine mammal or sea turtle that frequents Delaware waters, or for general information about MERR Institute, visit merrinstitute.org.