Injured harbor seal found

One morning last week, First Responder Suzanne was busy checking out a report of an otter potentially entangled in fishing gear.  Fortunately Suzanne saw only salmon in the nets and was able to reassure the caller.  But as she was leaving the scene, Suzanne received a report of a live seal on the beach.

A Beach Drive resident had noticed a young harbor seal coming and going for several days.  When it hauled out at low tide, the resident worried that beach walkers and their dogs might disturb the small weaned pup. He called the Seal Sitters Hotline and Operator Barb alerted Suzanne. 

Photo © SR3, NOAA Permit #24359

With the resident’s help, Suzanne set up signboards to warn beachgoers about the seal’s presence. Seal Sitters volunteers began to arrive while Suzanne took a good look at the animal.  She spotted a large wound at the base of the rear flippers and alerted network partner SR3. 

SR3 responders captured and transported the thin, injured seal to SR3’s marine mammal hospital in Des Moines.  They reported:

"During response it was noted that this animal had severe injuries to the ventral side of both ankles/flippers. Once brought on site further examination showed bone exposure and dislocation. Follow up x-rays showed the tibia/fibula were broken on both legs.”

X-ray of broken bones attributed to vessel strike. © SR3, NOAA Permit #24359

The veterinary staff determined this damage was caused by a vessel strike.  The seal could not survive such severe trauma and was euthanized. 

Many thanks to SR3 for their help caring for this animal.  Thanks also to Seal Sitters Allie, Vicki, Danielle, Marissa and Henry who responded to Scheduler Karin’s call for assistance.