A young seal found on the streets of New Haven has brought attention to the animal rescue program at Mystic Aquarium. The seal, named Chappy by New Haven police, is now receiving care at the aquarium to be released back into the wild. However, the cost of caring for seals like Chappy can be high, with an average of $10,000 per seal and nearly $1,000,000 for the entire program. The aquarium relies on grant funding and private donations to cover expenses such as food, medicine, and utilities.
The aquarium is seeking more state support and has urged legislators to restore funding in the governor’s budget and support House Bill 5385 to establish the Mystic Aquarium Animal Rescue Fund. The program also relies on volunteers, with 600 individuals assisting in the clinic and rescue efforts. With uncertainties surrounding funding, the program is hoping for increased public support to continue its vital work in rescuing and rehabilitating marine animals. The attention garnered by Chappy’s rescue may help contribute to funding for the program.
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