Young seal rescued after life-threatening gillnet entanglement near Vancouver

A young harbour seal has been rescued after becoming trapped in a life-threatening gillnet off the coast of West Vancouver. The animal, now named Annette, was found severely underweight and injured last Thursday. The incident highlights the ongoing risks marine wildlife face from discarded fishing gear.

The seal was spotted by a member of the public, who alerted the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society. Upon examination, rescuers discovered the net had cut deeply into her neck, likely over weeks or even months. Though the entanglement missed critical areas like her trachea and major blood vessels, it left her unable to eat properly.

By the time of her rescue, Annette weighed roughly half of what a healthy seal her age should. Dr. Martin Haulena, head veterinarian at the rescue centre, immediately began treatment with antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and pain relief. The team also cleaned and disinfected the wound to prevent infection.

Annette was born last summer and is still a juvenile. Her name comes from schoolchildren at Grundschule Annette von Droste-Hülshoff in Münster, Germany, who participated in a care and release programme linked to her recovery. The rescue society handles over 300 marine animal emergencies each year, with gillnet entanglements being a common threat.

The seal will remain in care for another four to six weeks before being returned to the wild. During this time, staff will monitor her weight gain and ensure the wound heals fully.

Annette's recovery will depend on her ability to regain strength and weight under supervision. Once cleared by veterinarians, she will be released back into her natural habitat. The case serves as a reminder of how discarded fishing equipment continues to endanger marine life along the coast.