Another success story as Mica returns to the sea

Mystic Aquarium does Earth Day release at Blue Shutters Beach of rescued and healed harp seal 

MICA. Photos courtesy of the Mystic Aquarium's animal rescue program

Following nearly seven months of specialized care from Mystic Aquarium’s Animal Rescue Team, Mica, a male harp seal approximately 1-2 years old, was released this morning at Blue Shutters Beach in Charlestown, RI. 

Rescued from Bristol, ME, on September 28, 2015 by the Marine Mammals of Maine, Mica weighed 53 lbs. when he arrived at Mystic Aquarium’s Animal Rescue Clinic.

Having been found mildly dehydrated and with pneumonia, he received specialize care and rehabilitation.

Weighing in at more than 65 lbs., Mica’s return to the ocean on Earth Day was celebrated with the support of hundreds of community members and warm springtime weather.

Earth Day celebrations continued at Mystic Aquarium’s Party for the Planet as part of a global celebration that had a local twist.

The Aquarium hosted activities raising awareness about conservation, sustainable living, and ways to make our planet a better place to live.


The party continues April 23 during Mystic Aquarium’s Party by the Coast. Conservation-minded community members are invited to join Aquarium staff and marine biologists at Bluff Point State Park in Groton to help clean the beach and look for Long Island Sound inhabitants.

Get hands-on while helping to protect our local species, like the seals rescued by our Animal Rescue Team throughout the year.

On Sunday, adults can assist with the Aquarium’s ongoing project to restore Dodge Paddock and Beal Reserve in Stonington during a seed planting event.

Using the climate adaptive planting plan, this area will be better prepared for the future effects of our changing climate.

About Mystic Aquarium’s Animal Rescue Program

Mystic Aquarium’s Animal Rescue Program supports animals in need and educates the public about the marine environment and its inhabitants. The public is encouraged to call the aquarium’s 24-hour hotline at 860.572.5955 ext. 107 if they encounter a marine mammal or sea turtle in Conn., R.I. or Fishers Island, N.Y.  Mystic Aquarium is a founding member of the Northeast Region Stranding Network. This network in comprised of organizations along the eastern sea coast which have facilities and trained staff to care for sick and injured animals.  Marine Mammals are protected species, so only groups and facilities authorized by the National Marine Fisheries Service are permitted to handle these animals.