THE Vancouver Police Department (VPD) Marine Unit and the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society (VAMMR) rescued an abandoned harbour seal pup near Bowen Island on Tuesday evening, highlighting an ongoing partnership during peak pupping season.
On July 21, at 5 p.m., the VAMMR requested urgent assistance after a visitor on Bowen Island spotted a lone, distressed seal pup on the shoreline at Seymour Bay, near Cowan Point.
VPD officers immediately deployed the VPD Marine vessel Larry Young to transport three veterinary technicians to the area. Arriving at 6:50 p.m., officers executed a precise beach landing, allowing the veterinary team to safely secure the female pup.
The week-old pup, named “Canadian Bacon”, was transported back to the VAMMR facility for medical treatment. She is under close medical care of VAMMR and they are cautiously optimistic that she can return to the wild in a few months.
This operation reflects a long-standing partnership between the VPD Marine Unit and VAMMR to protect local wildlife.
With harbour seals currently giving birth, authorities remind the public that mothers often leave pups on shore to rest. If you spot a seal pup, stay well back, keep dogs on a leash, and do not attempt a rescue yourself. Report sightings directly to VAMMR at 604-258-7325.
