Four rescued seals released at Hammonasset

MADISON, CT (WFSB) - Four rescued seals were released back into the wild on Thursday morning.

It happened at Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison at 9 a.m.

The seals were named Tortellini, Orecchiette, Sealy-Dan, and Cavatelli.

All four were rescued off Block Island.

Officials called the event the largest public seal release in Connecticut.

The “Four out the Door” release happened on the beach across from the park’s Nature Center.

The aquarium said it takes an average of $10,000 to rescue, rehab, and release just one seal.

It said Tortellini was found tangled in buoys and fishing line near Block Island’s North Light on May 3.

Despite her alert and responsive demeanor, she suffered injuries to her flippers and neck. Tortellini began eating on her own immediately upon arrival, and with supportive care, saltwater swims, and daily treatments, her wounds quickly healed.

Orecchiette was rescued on April 15 in poor condition with an infected wound.

Sealy-Dan was found on May 12 with an infected puncture wound.

Cavatelli was rescued on May 21. The seal had numerous lacerations and was said to have responded well to care.

All four were deemed ready for release by aquarium officials.

“We are incredibly excited about this historic seal release and the opportunity to engage our supporters in such a meaningful way,” said Sarah Callan, Animal Rescue Program Manager for Mystic Aquarium. “This event highlights the importance of our rescue and rehabilitation efforts and allows one of our dedicated supporters to directly contribute to marine conservation.”

The four seals came onto the beach in cages from Mystic Aquarium, where they had been rehabilitated over the last several months.

“Fishing line, fishing gear, various ropes, we’ve even seen frisbees around seal’s necks,” said Callan.

Tortellini was the first to take the waddle to Long Island Sound.

Others headed for land but eventually made their way out to the water too.

The destination?

“We’ve had seals go up north towards Newfoundland within a couple of weeks. Some go to Maine, some New Hampshire. It’s interesting to see their movements, they go where the fish are,” Callan said.

Anyone looking to donate to the program can do so on the aquarium’s website here.