The Alaska SeaLife Center announced the release of a female Pacific harbor seal pup set for Thursday in Cordova. The pup – named Qiteq (pronounced key-tuck, the Sugpiaq word for Rain) – was taken into the Wildlife Response Program in May, and was its first female Pacific harbor seal patient this year.
Quteg was set to be released on the beach near Orca Adventure Lodge in Cordova Thursday.
“Quteg’s return to Cordova is a special occasion,” said Kathy Woodie, ASLC staff veterinarian. “She has grown strong and fit, and our hopes are high for her success in the wild.”
The pup was admitted to ASLC on May 27, after actively trying to haul out onto fishing vessels, due to possible predators or changing tides. With no adult seals in the area, it was determined she was abandoned and in need of care. She was a newborn, estimated to be two days old, and would not survive without her mother in the deeper waters.
Due to her age, the pup was initially fed a milk-based formula specially created for harbor seal pups. After her digestive system further developed she transitioned to a fish-based formula, and then graduated to catching and eating fish, under the guidance of ASLC staff.
“We’ve been so pleased with Qiteq’s steady progress in our Wildlife Response Program,” said Woodie. “With a lot of care and support, she has made a great recovery and is ready to return to her ocean home.”
The Alaska SeaLife Center is the only wildlife response organization in Alaska authorized by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to respond to and care for live marine mammals that are found injured or stranded throughout the state.
