released a male harp seal named Poseidon into the waters of Blue Shutters Beach at 469 East Beach Rd. in Charlestown, R.I., on Wednesday, August 10 at 7 a.m.
Poseidon was rescued by the Maine Department of Marine Resources (MDMR) on May 29 in Phippsburg, Maine, after being found on the beach lethargic and having a seizure-like activity. Upon admittance, 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 this harp seal Poseidon, meaning “God of the Sea.”
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, over 40 adult harp seals have been spotted in the waters of Conn. and R.I.
Information provided from a press release.
