Island Life

Jenkinson’s Aquarium Announces Death of Beloved Seal

by
Daniel Nee
September 27, 2023

‘Lucy’ the seal at Jenkinson’s Aquarium in Point Pleasant Beach. Lucy died in Sept. 2023 at the age of 34. (Photo: Jenkinson’s Aquarium)

A seal that was rescued from the Point Pleasant Canal in the early 1990s, going on to become a beloved staple of the then-new Jenkinson’s Aquarium on the boardwalk, has died, Jenkinson’s announced Wednesday.

“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our adored harbor seal, Luseal,” the aquarium said in a social media post.

“Lucy was a local at heart,” the post went on to say, having been found stranded in the in Point Pleasant Canal, known for its swift currents and rows of rocks against its side rails. After being deemed nonreleasable, she became part of the Jenkinson’s Aquarium family in July 1991.

‘Lucy’ the seal at Jenkinson’s Aquarium in Point Pleasant Beach. Lucy died in Sept. 2023 at the age of 34. (Photo: Jenkinson’s Aquarium)

“Lucy,” as she was nicknamed, was 34-years-old, which surpassed the average life expectancy of her wild cousins by over a decade.

“During this time, she captured the hearts of all,” the aquarium said. “We are devastated. We ask for your support and kindness as our team processes our grief. She will be dearly missed.”