Seal Draws Crowds To Inwood's Muscota Marsh

INWOOD, NY — A harbor seal has made Inwood's Muscota Marsh its home for the second summer in a row, drawing crowds to the small Uptown park, according to reports.

The marine mammal, known affectionately to locals as "Sealy," ventured to New York City's waters from Mystic, Connecticut, a rescue group told NY1. Back home in New England, the seal was called "Bluebell."

Sealy was first spotted in Muscota Marsh in July last year, but his origin was a mystery until NY1 confirmed its identity this month.

The harbor seal's venture to Inwood wasn't without its troubles. The seal was rescued in Maine and was likely abandoned after its birth, Mystic Aquarium employees told NY1. These days, the animal has found a new home as "Sealy" among Inwood residents.

"At approximately four to five months old, following months of rehabilitation in Mystic Aquarium's Animal Rescue Clinic, Bluebell was deemed healthy and prepared for life at sea. He was released on Oct. 5 at Blue Shutters Beach in Charlestown, Rhode Island," Mystic Aquariuam's Dale Wolbrink told NY1.

The harbor seal's repeated visits to New York City are an encouraging sign that efforts to clean city waters from pollution have been successful. Marine animals including beavers and whales have been spotted enjoying New York City waters this summer.

Despite this being the second year Sealy has stayed in Muscota Marsh, city dwellers are still captivated by the majestic beast. Residents from all over New York City have made a pilgrimage up to the very tip of Manhattan to take photos and videos of the beloved seal.

Here are some of the best shots taken of Sealy this year:

Sealy showing off his athleticism:

Some slow-motion shots:

Read the full NY1 story here.