Rescued Off New Haven St., Chappy The Seal Has Died: Mystic Aquarium

MYSTIC, CT — The celebrated seal who galumphed his way onto Chapel Street in New Haven and into the hearts of a nation has died, the Mystic Aquarium said on Instagram Monday.

"It's with the heaviest of hearts that we share the passing of Chappy, the gray seal pup we had been treating in our animal rescue Clinic," the Aquarium posted.

The gray seal pup was found and rescued by the New Haven Police Department.

"Sadly, we were informed that Chappy passed away this morning," police wrote on Facebook. "We would like to thank everyone who reached out, it was amazing to see how many people this story touched."

On Instagram, the Mystic Aquarium said its staff gave the seal "it's best possible chance" and are "devastated" he died.

The Aquarium's full statement:

"Chappy was admitted into our Rescue Clinic on February 16, after being found stranded on the streets of New Haven, CT by the New Haven Police Department. While Chappy initially presented with the primary issues of dehydration, malnutrition, and a mild pneumonia, and he initially responded well to treatment, his condition declined in the subsequent days as he was transitioned onto whole fish and began having digestive difficulties.

Unfortunately, despite all the efforts, his gastrointestinal issues were too severe to treat, and he succumbed to his disease. A complete necropsy was conducted, and findings are consistent with mesenteric torsion, meaning that his intestines were twisted around the mesentery, cutting off blood supply to a large portion of the gastrointestinal tract. This condition can be challenging to diagnose and has a poor prognosis."

"In addition, while unrelated to Chappy’s immediate cause of death, small pieces of plastic were found in his stomach highlighting the threat that marine debris, especially plastics, poses to marine animals.

The Mystic Aquarium staff are proud that they were able to give Chappy the best chance possible and are devastated by this outcome. The reality of working with stranded animals can be tough sometimes, but Chappy was surrounded by love until the very end. Thank you to everyone who has reached out with words of encouragement and support. It means so much to our team."