Baby Seal Trades Ocean for City Streets

A baby seal named Ben decided he was tired of swimming and set out on an adventure through downtown New Haven, Connecticut. Far from his ocean home but just blocks away from some of the city's most famous pizza spots, officials thought he might be on a mission to try the famous clam pizza. Some even joked that he could have been in town to apply to Yale University.

An Unusual Urban Explorer

Ben's city tour was quite extensive. Before being discovered wandering the streets, the adventurous pup made several stops around town. He lounged in front yards, hung out in front of an oyster bar, and even found shelter under someone's porch during a snowstorm.

While seals occasionally appear near beaches, Ben's journey took him unusually far inland. As he ventured deeper into the city, officials grew worried about his safety—especially the danger of him stumbling into traffic.

Rescue and Recovery

Mystic Aquarium's animal rescue team stepped in to help the wayward seal. When they found him, Ben was clearly exhausted from his sightseeing adventure. He weighed only twenty-eight pounds—well below the thirty-five pounds that healthy newborn seals typically weigh.

The rescue team immediately created a special treatment plan to help Ben recover his strength. Despite his weakened condition, the little explorer has kept his playful and curious nature, which is a good sign for his recovery.

Heading Back to the Wild

The team at Mystic Aquarium is focused on helping Ben regain his health and strength. Once he's fully recovered and hopefully less likely to take himself on another pizza tour, the plan is to release him back into the wild where he belongs.

This little seal's adventure reminds us that wildlife sometimes shows up in the most unexpected places—even outside our favorite pizza restaurants.