A tiny female harbor seal pup who weighed in at just 12 pounds at the Alaska SeaLife Center is listed in critical condition, but does seem to be getting stronger, according to Wildlife Response Program curator Jane Belovarac.
The pup, found near a ferry terminal in Haines on May 3 by Haines Animal Rescue Kennel, had full lanugo, the soft fur of newborn pups. While ice seals are typically born with lanugo, it is rare for harbor seals to be born with it.
Veterinarian Carrie Goertz, ASLC’s director of animal health, said that because of her size, lanugo and various exam and diagnostic results, they believe the pup is only a few days old and premature. Given the pup’s immune system due to her premature birth, she faces a long road to recovery. Staff at the center said that with her health challenges, including respiratory and cardiovascular issues, just seeing her make it through the first night was very uplifting.
The pup was the second harbor seal that the Haines Animal Rescue Kennel had rescued from Haines in just two days. The first pup died before arriving at the center.
The rescuers responded according to the rules for such incidents, by first contacting ASLC and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Then with NOAA’s approval they transported the pup to ASLC on May 4.
Caring for rescued wildlife under regulations imposed because of the COVID-19 pandemic added challenges for staff.
“We all wear masks, plan a lot in advance, and move apart as soon as possible,” Goertz said.
Since the virus is affecting operations, the center is assessing stranding incidents on a case-by-case basis to ensure staff safety, ASLC officials said.
ASLC is a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit entity and the only permitted marine mammal rehabilitation center in the state. More information is online at alaskasealife.org.
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May 16, 2020 at 06:00PM
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Harbor seal pup in critical condition likely a preemie - Cordova Times
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