Days-old seal pup marks first rescue of 2026 season for Vancouver Aquarium

A rescued harbour seal pup named Sdlaana is seen in this image handed out by the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society.

A days-old pup found under a BC Ferries ramp in Haida Gwaii has marked the first harbour seal rescue of the 2026 season for the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society.

A passerby discovered the male seal emaciated and alone in Skidegate, and he was flown to Vancouver in critical condition Tuesday, according to the society. The seal was weak and severely underweight, leading rescuers to believe he was without his mother for an “extended period.”

The pup—believed to be under five days old—was named Sdlaana, which means “survivor” in Haida.

“The pup arrived in critical condition after a long journey and received immediate treatment upon admission,” said Lindsaye Akhurst, VAMMR senior manager, in a news release Friday. “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.”

As it’s harbour seal pupping season, the organization reminded beach-goers they may see young seals on the shore. Most of the time the pup is not abandoned, and VAMMR experts can determine if it needs to be rescued.

Read more: What do I do if I see a seal pup on the beach? Vancouver rescue launches awareness campaign

People are encouraged to call VAMMR’s hotline at 604-258-SEAL (7325) if they spot a pup in distress.