Two Gray Seal Pups Rescued

Two female gray seals pups are receiving medical care for deep wounds caused by marine debris.  Both seals were found on Southampton Town beaches with gear encircling their necks and muzzles.  Calls to the Riverhead Foundation’s Emergency 24 hr Hotline (631-369-9829) resulted with an immediate response necessary to save these animals.   

The first female gray seal named “Bella” was reported by Quogue law enforcement on Thursday, April 30th. The netting encircling Bella’s body created a wound to her neck. The debris was marked with several floats and roping which weighed approximately10lbs. The  female gray seal, weighing approximately 50 lbs and measuring approximately 3-1/2 feet in length is presently receiving treatment at the Riverhead Foundation’s marine mammal and sea turtle hospital, located at the Atlantis Marine World Aquarium.    

On Monday, May 4th, the Riverhead Foundation’s Rescue Program was called by a local resident to Hampton Bays after a young female gray seal was found on the beach entangled in gear.  The pup’s neck and muzzle were entangled with 3.75” mesh gill netting marked with floats and roping.  Staff biologist Jackie Callahan rescued the young seal and transported her back to the hospital facilities where the gear was removed and the lacerations treated.  The seal later named “Rose” is currently recovering from her injuries at the Riverhead Foundation’s hospital, and will remain at the facility until her wounds completely heal. 

The Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation operates the New York State Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Rescue Program.  Funds for the recovery and treatment of injured marine mammals and sea turtles are generated by private donations and the Riverhead Foundation’s Animal Adoption Program.  For more information or to send a donation for the care of “Bella” and “Rose” please visit: www.riverheadfoundation.org

Join the Riverhead Foundation on the Peconic River!!!

The Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research & Preservation is excited to join ActivEntrepreneur, Clubhouse of Suffolk, Sierra Club of  Long Island and Peconic Baykeeper at the 2nd Annual Long Island Kayakathon! Come to Riverhead on Saturday, June 20, 2009, to participate in a 5 mile  paddle on the Peconic River, or take a guided paddling experience through  the Peconic Wetlands. Join us to get some exercise, take in the beautiful scenery, and help great non-profit organizations in the process! Get ready to 'Paddle to a Healthier World!'

Pre-register in advance by visiting www.likayakathon.com.  The 5 mile Kayakathon begins at 9:00 AM and is $35 per entry.  The Guided Paddling Experience has 4 different sessions beginning at 9:30AM and is $45 per adult. 

Your entry includes:

• 5 mile paddle or guided paddling experience
• Guided paddling includes a single or double kayak, safety equipment and lesson; 5 mile paddle does not include kayak rental.
• Snacks, Beverages, T-Shirt, Education

For more information call 516-343-6247 or email activ@optonline.net.