Common Name: Grey Seal

Scientific Name: Halichoerus grypus

Birth Date: December 2020

Maturation: Yearling

Average Weight: 70 pounds

My Story:

At approximately one month of age, Bowie was found severly malnourished and dehydrated on an east coast beach.  He was immediately taken to the New York Marine Rescue Center where the veterinary and animal care team worked diligently to help him regain his strength in hopes of returning him to the wild.  During multiple medical assessments, it was discovered that Bowie has microphthalmia or under-developed eyes which resulted in him being completely blind in his right eye and partially blind in his left eye.  Sadly, Bowie would not be able to hunt or avoid predators with this condition and was deemed non-releasable.

Ocean Connections is honored to have the opportunity to welcome Bowie into our hearts and care.  While he is the 10th rescue to join our family, he is the very first Grey Seal at Ocean Connections!  While Grey Seals are typically standoffish, Bowie has been described as trusting, eager to be around his caretakers, and the sweetest of boys.

You can support Bowie's rescue and daily care here.

Fun Facts: The New York Marine Rescue Center chooses a theme for naming their patients and the theme for 2020 was "rockstars" which is how this handsome seal got the name "Bowie" after David Bowie!