**Wayward Seal Causes Commotion on New Haven Streets**
A curious sighting brought excitement and concern to the streets of New Haven, Connecticut, as a young gray seal was spotted wandering the city on Wednesday evening.
The unexpected visitor, estimated to be around 1-2 years old, was seen roaming the streets, leaving residents and authorities alike scratching their heads. New Haven police reported that the seal, weighing approximately 50-60 pounds, was found near the intersection of Main Street and Chapel Street, roughly 1.5 miles from the Long Island Sound.
“I was walking home from work when I saw this…this thing,” said local resident Emily Wilson, 28. “At first, I thought it was a large dog, but then I saw the flippers and I was like, ‘Wait a minute, that’s a seal!’ I couldn’t believe my eyes.”
New Haven police quickly responded to the scene, and officers worked to safely corral the seal and contain it until wildlife experts could arrive.
“We received a call around 8:45 PM about a seal on the loose in the city,” said Officer James Davis, who responded to the scene. “We worked quickly to ensure the public’s safety and the seal’s well-being. We’re still trying to determine how it ended up here.”
The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) was notified, and a team of marine experts was dispatched to assist.
“We’re working to determine the cause of the seal’s presence in New Haven,” said DEEP spokesperson, Lisa Gauthier. “It’s not uncommon for seals to venture away from their typical habitats, but it’s unusual for them to be found as far inland as New Haven.”
The seal, which appears to be healthy and uninjured, was taken into care by a local wildlife rehabilitation center. Authorities are urging residents to keep a safe distance and not attempt to approach or feed the animal.
As the investigation continues, residents are left wondering how the young seal ended up so far from its natural habitat. The incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildlife and the importance of respecting their boundaries.
The seal’s unexpected visit to New Haven has sparked both fascination and concern among locals, and authorities are working to ensure the animal’s safe and successful return to its natural environment.
**Update:** The Connecticut DEEP has set up a hotline for residents to report any further sightings of the seal or other wildlife concerns. The public can call (203) 555-5555 or visit their website for more information.
