In March, while taking a stroll in Redondo Beach, California, a woman named Anna encountered an unusual sight blocking the roadway ahead. Marine Mammal Care Center CEO John Warner recounted the event, stating, “Anna saw an object on the bike path above the beach, and a group of people were gathering near it. When Anna got closer, she saw that it was an elephant seal pup and could hear it vocalizing.”
Concerned for the pup’s welfare, Anna promptly contacted the Marine Mammal Care Center. While waiting for assistance, she ensured that onlookers maintained a safe distance from the seal.
Upon the arrival of Brad Torsone, the response department director of the Marine Mammal Care Center, he swiftly evaluated the situation. It became apparent that the seal, later named Destiny, was in distress. Destiny was found approximately 150 feet from her ocean habitat and appeared severely malnourished. Care center staff later discovered that Destiny weighed a mere 60 pounds, significantly underweight for a seal of her age. Healthy pups of Destiny’s age typically weigh closer to 300 pounds. Rescuers speculated that Destiny had wandered up the path in search of warmth from the concrete to compensate for her lack of body heat.
With care and caution, Torsone carefully loaded Destiny into the rescue truck and transported her to the center’s animal hospital for urgent medical attention.
Warner emphasizes the importance of following Anna’s example if anyone encounters a seal or sea lion in distress — contacting the local marine mammal stranding organization immediately. It’s crucial to maintain a distance of at least 100 feet from the animals and refrain from interacting with them. With collective efforts, seals like Destiny can receive the assistance they need without added stress or risk.
Safe at the hospital, Destiny is under the expert care of dedicated professionals.
“Our team of staff and volunteers are tirelessly working to provide Destiny with the care she needs to recover and return to her ocean home,” Warner affirmed.