Injured Seal Pup Flown from Haida Gwaii Marks Start of 2026 Rescue Season

Vancouver, B.C. - The Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society (VAMMR) has admitted the first harbour seal pup of the 2026 season after it was found emaciated and alone on a ramp in Skidegate, Haida Gwaii. The male pup, named Sdlaana, meaning "survivor" in the Haida language, is believed to be less than five days old. He arrived at the Marine Mammal Rescue Centre on May 19, dehydrated and in critical condition. 

A member of the public discovered the pup beneath a BC Ferries ramp, weak and severely underweight, indicating he had likely been without his mother for an extended period. Local volunteers coordinated with Fisheries and Oceans Canada and VAMMR to arrange transportation for the animal. Pacific Coastal Airlines assisted by flying Sdlaana to Vancouver for urgent veterinary assessment and treatment. 

“The pup arrived in critical condition after a long journey and received immediate treatment upon admission,” said Lindsaye Akhurst, Senior Manager at Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society. “Right now, our team is focused on stabilizing him, keeping him comfortable and giving him the time and care he needs to rest and recover.”  
 
With harbour seal pupping season underway, members of the public may come across pups resting alone on shore. In most cases, the pup is not abandoned, but it’s important to know how to respond in a way that protects both the animal and your own safety. VAMMR has produced a video that helps the public understand how to respond safely and responsibly when they encounter a seal pup. 

“The summer always brings an influx of patients needing urgent care,” said Akhurst. “Support from the public helps ensure we are prepared to respond whenever those calls come in.”  
 
To support Sdlaana's recovery and help ensure VAMMR is prepared for the patients that follow, a group of dedicated supporters has come together to create an $8,000 matching gift challenge. Every dollar donated will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $8,000, helping to fund the veterinary care and rehabilitation each marine mammal patient requires. Donations can be made at www.vammr.org/rescueready. VAMMR is an independent charity and Canada's only dedicated marine mammal rehabilitation facility. 
 

To follow Sdlaana’s recovery and other marine mammal rescue stories throughout the season, follow VAMMR on social media at @vammrs. 
 
Anyone who encounters a seal pup in distress is encouraged to call the Marine Mammal Rescue Hotline at 604-258-SEAL (7325) or Fisheries and Oceans Canada Marine Mammal Incident Reporting Hotline1-800-465-4336.