Snuffleufagus the rehabilitated harp seal began his journey back into the wild at 2pm Tuesday, March 31st at First Landing State Park!
At first reluctant to leave the comfort of his crate, Snuffy emerged into the bright sun and spent a few moments taking in the Bay Breeze.
Within seconds, his eyes had locked on the glinting waves and he gave a few good hops right to the shoreline.
Then he stopped, looked straight at the crowd, gave what appeared to be a little nod, as if to say “thank you,” and took a big dive into the Chesapeake Bay.
Outfitted with a high-tech radio transmitter, marine scientists will track Snuffy’s movements to learn more about harp seal behavior. This is the third seal to be rehabilitated by the Virginia Aquarium Stranding Team.
More information about Snuffy and the Stranding Program can be found at www.virginiaaquarium.com. Maritime field trips and interpretive programs can be scheduled through the Virginia Aquarium’s Chesapeake Bay Lab at 757-412-2319 or through the Interpretive Programs Office at First Landing State Park 757-412-2320.