Mystic Aquarium releases rehabilitated gray seal at R.I. beach

MYSTIC, Conn. (WLNE) — The Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut said they released a rehabilitated gray seal back into the ocean on Thursday.

The aquarium said Kiwi was found malnourished, thin and suffering from an infection in Nantucket back in January.

When Kiwi was brought to the aquarium, veterinarians said she was between four and five-weeks-old and weighed a measly 45lbs.

Kiwi got specialized care and ended up doubling in weight during her two-month stay at the rehab center.

“It was amazing to witness how quickly she bounced back. Working alongside the veterinary and animal care staff who pour their hearts into this job, and then seeing the firsthand the recovery of these stranded seals — it’s really the best part of the job,” an animal rescue technician said.

Kiwi’s return to the ocean was celebrated by a crowd of onlookers at Blue Shutters Beach in Charlestown, Rhode Island.

Despite initial hesitation, animal rescue technicians said she eventually made her way into the ocean, popping her head out of the water to the cheers of the onlookers.

For more information on the Mystic Aquarium and their animal rehabilitation program, click here.