Baby Seal Found Trapped in Fishing Net on Beach Rescued by Mystic Aquarium Workers

The animal, who was rescued on Earth Day, is believed to be between four and five months old

Earlier this week, the aquarium was alerted about the animal being entangled in fishing netting on the remote shores of Block Island, according to a press release from the organization shared with PEOPLE.

Detailing that the netting was entangled around the animal’s neck and front flippers, the aquarium said it resulted in a “severe laceration” that left the seal unable to swim.

Staff at the Mystic Aquarium later conducted a full medical evaluation of the seal and administered treatment to prevent infection and promote healing of the lacerated flipper.

The seal, believed to be between four and five months old, is now under observation at Mystic Aquarium’s rehabilitation center, where she will be watched until she is deemed fit for release.

She recently received radiographs, and veterinarians confirmed that she is also battling pneumonia, the aquarium said.

The seal has also started antibiotics in addition to her wound treatment and is currently eating on her own.