Seal Pup Hanging out at Narragansett Town Beach Appears Healthy, Experts Say

NARRAGANSETT, RI—A young gray seal pup that has been lounging around on the town beach for a couple days appears to be in good health, according to experts at Mystic Aquarium.

The seal, likely a pup born during this past season, is exhibiting behavior typical for a gray seal, said Janelle Schuh, stranding coordinator at Mystic Aquarium.

“We see gray seals in that area all year round, so it’s not unusual to see a seal on the beach,” Schuh said. “I suspect in the next day or so he will scoot away on his own.”

The seal has attracted a bit of attention from curious onlookers. Some worried that the seal might be injured, like Heather Binns Hopkins, who called Mystic Aquarium along with numerous others who were worried that the animal was suffering.

But Hopkins soon heard back and was told that the seal is likely catching up on rest before venturing back out into the ocean.

She also learned that responders from Mystic have been checking on the animal regularly to make sure it’s OK and is left alone.

“I feel much better,” she said afterwards.

Schuh said that seals are usually pupping in January and February, so this particular seal, based on its size, was most likely born this year. Young seals normally only spend the first two or three weeks of their lives with their mother before venturing out alone.

“My suspicion is he got on the beach and has been resting,” Schuh said. “They come out onto the beach all the time—that’s how they get their best rest. It just so happens this is a busy beach.”

If you encounter a stranded animal, call the aquarium's 24-hour animal rescue hotline at 1-860-572-5955 ext. 107. Leave your name, phone number and the animal's location.

Never touch a stranded animal. All marine mammals are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which makes touching or disturbing an animal against the law.

Give the animal space. They can bite or transmit disease.

Photos: Heather Binns Hopkins