Rescued Harbor Seal Responding to Treatment After Shooting

An emaciated harbor seal found wounded on a Washington dock is now eating and responding to treatment after rescuers discovered she'd been shot in the face.

The adult female was spotted on February 19 near Quilcene Bay's Linger Longer Marina. Center Valley Animal Rescue safely captured her and rushed her to Sealife Response, Rehabilitation and Research (SR3) in Des Moines, a marine wildlife rehabilitation center.

The next day brought a shocking discovery. X-ray imaging during her sedated exam revealed bullet wounds to her face. SR3 shared the news on social media, announcing they would monitor her closely and determine her chances of recovery in the coming days.

But the news since then has been encouraging. By February 23, the seal was eating on her own, taking pain medication and antibiotics. She's awaiting a CT scan to help veterinarians better understand her injuries and plan her treatment.

SR3 specializes in rescuing and rehabilitating injured marine mammals along the Pacific Northwest coast. Their Des Moines facility was the first dedicated marine wildlife rehabilitation center of its kind in the region. The organization has successfully returned dozens of seals to the ocean after months of intensive care.

The Bright Side

Despite her traumatic injury and severe malnutrition, this seal is showing the resilience that makes recovery possible. She's accepting food and responding to medical care, two critical signs that her body is fighting to heal. The dedicated team at SR3 has seen similar miracles before, including Sagittarius, a harbor seal pup who spent 92 days in their care before swimming free again.

CVAR Founder Sara Penhallegon summed up what everyone involved is feeling: "We are all hoping that she will be OK."

Thanks to quick action by rescuers and expert care from SR3's team, this harbor seal has a fighting chance at returning to the wild where she belongs.