Hurt Young Seal Found On Jersey Shore Beach On Christmas

SURF CITY, NJ — It's the time of year where seals rule the beaches of the Jersey Shore, and an injured one was rescued by the Marine Mammal Stranding Center on Christmas Day.

A young harbor seal was found "badly injured" on the beach in Surf City, according to stranding center officials.

The male, likely born last spring, had a large laceration on his left hip, and multiple smaller wounds on his abdomen and around his tail, officials said. The center's veterinarian said he likely was attacked by a shark. See photos of the seal and his injuries here.

He was quickly taken to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center for treatment, where he was administered fluids and had his wounds flushed out. Oral and topical medications were given to prevent infection.

The seal is currently resting in the center's intensive care unit.

In a previous social media post, the center reminded beachgoers that seals need to rest and if seen on the beach, people and pets should be kept at least 150 feet away from them. If you see a seal in distress, you can call the center's 24/7 hotline at 609-266-0538.

The Marine Mammal Stranding Center asks that you donate to help them care for this seal and others they will take in during seal season. You can find more information here.