After months of rehabilitation at the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Centre, five seals were released back into the wild on Wednesday.
The seals, named Tofino, Comox, Sidney, Nanaimo, and Powell River, were all rescued by the centre earlier this year. They were found stranded and in need of medical attention along the coast of British Columbia.
According to the rescue centre, the seals were all suffering from various injuries and illnesses, including malnutrition and respiratory infections. However, with the dedicated care and treatment provided by the centre’s team of experts, the seals were able to make a full recovery.
The release of these five seals marks a significant milestone for the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Centre, which has been rehabilitating and releasing marine animals for over 50 years. The centre is a non-profit organization that relies on donations and support from the community to continue its important work.
During the release, the seals were fitted with satellite tags, which will allow the rescue centre to track their movements and ensure their successful return to the wild. The tags will also provide valuable data for research and conservation efforts.
The release was a bittersweet moment for the rescue centre’s team, who had grown attached to the seals during their time in rehabilitation. However, they were also filled with joy and pride as they watched the seals swim off into the ocean, back to their natural habitat.
The Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Centre is dedicated to the conservation and protection of marine animals, and their successful rehabilitation and release of these five seals is a testament to their commitment and expertise.
The centre reminds the public to always call their hotline at 604-258-SEAL (7325) if they come across a stranded or injured marine animal. With the help of the community, the centre can continue to save and release these beautiful creatures back into the wild.
