Mysterious Gray Seal Sighting in New Haven Leaves Authorities Baffled In a bizarre incident that has left wildlife experts and local authorities scratching their heads, a young gray seal was discovered roaming the streets of New Haven, Connecticut, on Tuesday evening

**Mysterious Gray Seal Sighting in New Haven Leaves Authorities Baffled**

In a bizarre incident that has left wildlife experts and local authorities scratching their heads, a young gray seal was discovered roaming the streets of New Haven, Connecticut, on Tuesday evening.

The unexpected sighting occurred around 8:30 p.m. in the downtown area, near the intersection of Chapel and York streets. Witnesses reported seeing the seal, estimated to be around 2-3 years old and approximately 4 feet in length, walking on its flippers and seemingly disoriented.

“I was walking home from work when I saw this…this thing,” said local resident Emily Chen. “At first, I thought it was a large dog or a small bear, but as I got closer, I realized it was a seal! I was shocked and a little scared, to be honest.”

New Haven police were quickly notified, and officers responded to the scene to secure the area and ensure public safety. The seal, which appeared to be healthy and uninjured, was contained and later transported to a nearby wildlife rehabilitation center for further examination and care.

“We’re still trying to determine how the seal ended up in the city,” said Officer James Smith of the New Haven Police Department. “We’re working with local wildlife experts and marine biologists to try and piece together the circumstances surrounding its appearance. It’s not uncommon for seals to be spotted in coastal areas, but it’s extremely unusual for one to be found so far inland and in an urban setting.”

Dr. Kathryn Sullivan, a marine biologist at the University of Connecticut, noted that gray seals are known to migrate and disperse over long distances, but the exact route and motivation behind this individual’s journey remain a mystery.

“It’s possible that the seal may have been swept off course by strong winds or currents, or perhaps it was attracted to the city’s waterfront areas in search of food,” Dr. Sullivan said. “However, without further investigation and tracking, it’s difficult to say for certain how this seal ended up in New Haven.”

The seal is currently being cared for at the rehabilitation center, where it will receive specialized care and attention. Authorities are urging residents to keep a safe distance and not approach the animal, as it is a wild creature that may behave unpredictably.

As the investigation into the seal’s unexpected appearance continues, local residents are left to wonder about the unusual sighting and the story behind this marine mammal’s journey to the heart of New Haven.