Zeus the Seal Finds Hope at Vancouver Aquarium

Earlier this month, a very special seal pup—nicknamed Zeus—was discovered lying alone on the shores of White Rock, British Columbia. Only one or two days old, this premature harbour seal weighed just 7 kilograms, noticeably underweight for a full-term newborn.

He was cold, lethargic, and still attached to part of his umbilical cord—clear signs that he hadn’t finished developing before birth. His coat was still covered in soft, white lanugo fur, something usually shed in the womb. It was obvious to rescuers that Zeus had arrived too soon and needed urgent care.

The Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society quickly responded. Their team, led by senior manager Lindsaye Akhurst, worked to stabilize the pup and begin intensive care. Zeus is now being tube-fed six times a day to keep his blood sugar steady, and he’ll remain in their care for two to three months while he gains strength.

Typically, seal pups wean from their mothers within four to six weeks. Since Zeus never had the chance to nurse, the rescue team must simulate that critical developmental window—teaching him to feed, swim, and ultimately survive on his own.

Zeus is the first rescued pup of the season, but many more are expected. The rescue center is preparing for up to 200 seal pups in the months ahead. As seal season ramps up, the public is reminded to keep their distance from pups on beaches and call rescue professionals when needed.

Zeus’s journey is just beginning. From his premature birth to the safety of the rescue center, he’s already beating the odds—and if all goes well, he’ll one day return to the ocean that was always meant to be his home. 

Learn More About VAMMRS