Seal Saved from Busy New York Airport Runway

Well, this isn't something you see every day, especially in New York.

New York Environmental Conservation Police Officers were called to JFK International Airport for a unique call.

Seal Tries To Catch Flight out of JFK

According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, on March 19th, 2024, a young gray seal was reported to be resting on the edge of a closed runway at John F. Kennedy International Airport.

Thankfully, NY ECOs were nearby and quickly responded to the scene.

On Facebook, the DEC explains that JFK's Airport Operations and Wildlife Staff were also on hand to "ensure the safe capture and removal of the seal." The young pup was secured in a large kennel when DEC ECOs then transported the seal to the care of the NY Marine Rescue Center.

It's reported that the seal after being evaluated by a vet, was given a flipper tag with a clean bill of health and then released on a beach in Suffolk County the same day of the rescue.

Seals No Strangers to New York and The Hudson Valley

Yes, it's very unusual that a seal was stranded on a runway. But seals aren't uncommon in New York waterways.

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The DEC reports, that seals can be found in New York from late fall until late spring and adds that "the highest concentration" generally occurs around April. Looks like we're heading into the thick of the "highest concentration" period.

There are 5 species of seals found in New York including  Harbor, Gray, and Harp seals which are the most common.

If you come across a stranded seal or any other stranded marine life, call the NY State Stranding Hotline at (631) 369-9829.