PHOTOS: Harp Seal Released Back Into Atlantic Ocean

Keep your eyes peeled to when you’re looking out at the Atlantic Ocean this week – If you’re lucky, you might spy Poseidon.

In this case though, Poseidon isn’t the Greek god of the sea. He is a healthy harp seal that was released by Mystic Aquarium from Blue Shutters Beach in Charlestown on Wednesday morning.

Poseidon was rescued by the Maine Department of Marine Resources on May 29 in Phippsburg, Maine, after being found on the beach lethargic and having a seizure-like activity.

Upon an initial exam, Poseidon had signs of dehydration and hyperthermia (body temperature of 106 degrees when 98.6 is normal). After beginning rehabilitation and becoming stabilized at University of New England’s Marine Animal Rescue Center, Poseidon was transferred to Mystic Aquarium on June 2 to create rehabilitation space for pup season.

After gaining approximately 60 pounds since arriving at Mystic Aquarium, Poseidon now weighs approximately 250 pounds, eats 18 pounds of fish per day and exhibits normal behaviors. Because of his large size, the animal rescue team named him after Poseidon.

The name “harp seal” comes from the “v” shaped markings on the species’ back, which resembles a harp. Harp seals typically travel from Canada into New England waters during the winter in pursuit of fish and return to the colder waters in March, April or early May. In 2011, more than 40 adult harp seals have been spotted in the waters of Conn. and R.I.

About Mystic Aquarium

Mystic Aquarium is a division of Sea Research Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization, and is counted among the nation’s leading aquariums with more than 300 species and an extensive collection of marine mammals, including New England’s only beluga whales. Mystic Aquarium has been a pioneer in offering guests a variety of up close encounters with a wide range of marine animals. The mission of Sea Research is to inspire people to care for and protect our ocean planet through education, research and exploration. Learn more at www.mysticaquarium.org or www.searesearch.org.

Release and photos courtesy of Mystic Aquarium. First two paragraphs written by Narragansett Patch Local Editor Stephen Greenwell.