R.I.P. Chappy
In mid-February, the New Haven Police Department rescued a gray seal pup that had been found roaming the city streets, a long way from the ocean. The police department dubbed the seal “Chappy,” after requesting names from the public. The seal was discovered on Chapel Street.
Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut welcomed Chappy and treated him swiftly for dehydration, malnutrition and mild pneumonia. Unfortunately, Chappy died last week from severe gastrointestinal complications.
Aquarium staff made a troubling discovery in the necropsy: Chappy’s stomach was full of plastic. The Center for Biological Diversity estimates that by 2050, plastic will outweigh all fish if pollution remains at its current rate.
We hope that Chappy’s death will not be in vain, and that his plight will raise awareness of the devastation of marine debris. Will you help us protect marine life to prevent more tragic deaths like this? You can make a gift in memory of Chappy. Click “Add a Dedication” on the donate page and indicate your gift is in honor/memory of Chappy.