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Two blind seals show the way for marine mammal rescue

Meet Cealum and Neptune, two seals at the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Centre. [fve]http://vimeo.com/86574988[/fve] The Rescue Centre is dedicated…

By Olivia Zauli Fellows and David Geselbracht , in Environment Feature story , on February 25, 2014 Tags: , , ,

Meet Cealum and Neptune, two seals at the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Centre.

[fve]http://vimeo.com/86574988[/fve]

The Rescue Centre is dedicated to saving the lives of marine animals. Each year dozens of injured mammals are rehabilitated and returned to the wild.

The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) classifies harbour seals as a “not at risk” species. However, the Center believes saving these animals can help experts learn how to provide care to more “at risk” animals like porpoises, whales and dolphins.

The Centre also conducts scientific research. Sometimes when animals are released back into the wild they are equipped with tracking devices. These help researchers better understand their movement patterns and feeding habits.

Some animals have injuries that are too severe to return to their natural habitat. Given the severity of their condition, Cealum and Neptune will not be released.