Huckleberry Finn Lands at National Aquarium for Next Chapter
Gray Seal Joins Pippi Longstocking and Amelia Bedelia in Rehabilitation
The National Aquarium's Animal Rescue team is now caring for a third rescued seal nicknamed Huckleberry Finn in line with this season's naming theme of storybook characters.
Huckleberry Finn, a gray seal, was first observed resting on the shoreline in Assateague State Park on February 26. The next day, he was spotted again, but his condition had appeared to deteriorate. At that time, in coordination with the Maryland Coastal Bays Program, Huckleberry Finn was taken to the Aquarium's Animal Care and Rescue Center (ACRC) for long-term rehabilitation.
The Animal Health and Rescue teams determined Huckleberry Finn was underweight and suffering from infected wounds throughout his body. He was immediately put on a regimen of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications to aid in his recovery. While under the Aquarium's care, Huckleberry Finn has already shown some promising signs of improvement.
After his intake, Huckleberry Finn joined Pippi Longstocking in one of the ACRC's seal rehabilitation suites.
Pippi Longstocking, a grey seal pup, has made great progress in rehabilitation since she was rescued on February 8 from the shoreline in Dewey Beach, Delaware. She's still receiving antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications to aid in her recovery, but she's gained weight and is eating on her own—two major signs her health is improving.
Meanwhile, Amelia Bedelia, a harp seal rescued from Ocean City, Maryland on February 23, is now entering the final stages of rehabilitation. She's regularly interacting with enrichment items and puzzle feeders are helping to sharpen up her foraging skills before she returns to her natural habitat.
The National Aquarium's Animal Rescue program is responsible for responding to stranded marine mammals and sea turtles along the nearly 3,190 miles of Maryland coast and works with stranding partners through the GARS Network to help respond, rescue and release animals year-round.
It's important to note that if a member of the public sees a stranded marine mammal or sea turtle, the person should not touch or approach the animal, or allow other people/pets to do so. We ask that you carefully note your location and time of day and immediately contact the National Aquarium's Stranded Animal Hotline at 410-576-3880.