Community Corner

Harp Seal Being Released Thursday from Charlestown Beach

A 1-year-old harp seal, Valentine, will be released at 9 a.m. Thursday from Charlestown Breachway State Beach. Seals are cute.

Mystic Aquarium’s animal rescue team will release a 1-year-old male harp seal named Valentine into the waters of Charlestown Breachway State Beach in Charlestown on Thursday, March 22 at 9 a.m.

Mystic Aquarium rescued Valentine on Feb. 13, 2012, at Moonstone Beach in South Kingstown, R.I. He had numerous infected wounds on his back, which appeared to be shark inflicted, and has since recovered after being treated with wound care and antibiotics.

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.

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Mystic Aquarium’s Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Program supports animals in need and educates the public about the marine environment and its inhabitants. The public is encouraged to call the aquarium’s 24-hour hotline at 860.572.5955, ext. 107 if they encounter a marine mammal or sea turtle in Conn., R.I. or Fishers Island, N.Y.

*Please note that marine animal release dates and times can change at the last minute, given the variables of medical health and release readiness, weather and a variety of other factors.  Mystic Aquarium will do its best to provide advance information if a change in a release schedule is anticipated.  We ask for your patience in cases where such advance notification is impossible.  Thank you for your support and understanding.

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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. Sea Research receives major support from United Technologies Corporation, The Coca-Cola Company and Foxwoods Resort Casino. Learn more at www.mysticaquarium.org or www.searesearch.org.

Release courtesy of Mystic Aquarium.

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