Back To The Sea: 4 Rehabilitated Gray Seals Released At Hammonasset

MADISON, CT — Four seals were released into Long Island Sound from Hammonasset Beach State Park Thursday, with hundreds of spectators cheering them on from the shore.

Among the four was Tortellini, a rehabilitated weanling female gray seal who was found last May entangled with buoys and fishing line near Block Island's North Light. She suffered injuries to her flippers and neck and was rehabbed at Mystic Aquarium.

Three other rehabilitated gray seals were also released, Orecchiette, Sealy-Dan, and Cavatelli.

According to Mystic Aquarium, Orecchiette was rescued on April 15 in poor condition with an infected wound, but after intensive care; Sealy-Dan, found on May 12 had an infected puncture wound, and Cavatelli, rescued on May 21 had numerous lacerations All three responded well to care and were ready for release, the Aquarium said.