Seal Pup Trapped In Fishing Line Rescued From LBI Beach

LONG BEACH ISLAND, NJ — A young seal that was wrapped in fishing line and had a respiratory infection is now safely recovering at the Marine Mammal Stranding Center.

The Grey seal pup was discovered on North Beach in Long Beach Island on March 26, according to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center (MMSC). He was entangled in a small section of monofilament line, possibly a gill net, officials said.

He was rushed to MMSC's hospital, where the line was carefully removed. It didn't leave any significant injuries, but was still tight enough to leave marks on his skin, indicating that he wouldn't have had much time left before the line began to cut into him, MMSC officials said.

During the seal's medical examination, he showed symptoms of a respiratory infection, so he was admitted into rehabilitation for treatment.

Now, the seal is resting comfortably as he undergoes treatment.

This is the second entangled seal the MMSC has rescued this season.