Typically, the Channel Islands Marine Wildlife Institute (CIMWI) does not name the marine life they rescue. But a pair of doe-eyed harbor seal pups quickly stole the hearts of volunteers, making them a special exception.
When CIMWI released “Kermit” and “Little Bunny Foo Foo” back into the wild on Tuesday, it was with teary eyes. It was a first for the organization, which rescues hundreds of marine animals every year but never before had the chance to rehabilitate and release seal pups.
These bouncy little pups were both found in May, emaciated on beaches in Santa Barbara and Oxnard. They were malnourished, dehydrated, lethargic, and requiring urgent medical attention, according to their caretakers at CIMWI. After being tipped off to each pup, CIMWI stepped in to provide medical and rehabilitation care.