Marine Mammal Stranding Center
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To Report a Stranding: Call our 24 hour hotline (609)-266-0538

Marine Mammal Stranding Center

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  • Home
  • Meet Our Pod
  • Virtual Tour
  • FAQ's
  • Ways to Donate
  • Get Involved
  • Stranding Statistics
  • Current Patients in House
  • Recently Released Seals
  • Past Patients
  • Rehabilitation Videos
  • Rescue & Release Videos
  • Summer Programs
  • Education Programs
  • Education Resources
  • Online Store
  • Sea Life Museum
  • Visit Us
  • Donor Wall
  • Memorials
  • Run for the Animals
  • Social Media
  • Blog

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frequently asked questions

How long have you been around?

The MMSC was started in 1978 by Robert Schoelkopf and Sheila Dean. The Center is celebrating its 44th  anniversary in 2022.

What animals do you help?

We help all marine mammals and sea turtles - this may include seals (Harbor, Grey, Harp, Hooded), dolphins, whales, and even the occasional wayward manatee. The four species of sea turtles that we see and rescue in NJ are the Green, Kemp's Ridley, Loggerhead, and Leatherback.

How many animals do you help?

Since opening in 1978, we have responded to over 5,780 strandings. An average year sees anywhere from 100-200 animals. Check out our stranding statistics!

Stranding stats

Where do you help?

We cover all 1,800 miles of tidal coastline and waterways in the state of New Jersey.

What should I do if I see a seal on the beach?

Seals are protected by both state and federal laws - therefore, it is illegal to approach and/or touch a seal. Most seals come onto the shore just to rest, and if you approach them, they may get scared and return to the sea before they are ready. If an injured seal returns to the water, they will not get the care they need.


Please keep all pets (dogs) away from the animals, as they will most definitely scare them and may also contract any diseases the seal is carrying.


The recommended viewing distance is from at least 150 feet away, and PLEASE call the MMSC at (609) 266-0538 to report all sightings.


Whales, dolphins, and sea turtles are also protected by state and federal laws - the same rules apply!

report stranding

What is the most unique animal you've dealt with?

California Sea Lion (escaped from the US Navy's program), Right whale and Beluga whale- both  in the Delaware River, and the occasional Florida manatee.

mmsc species list

If I visit the MMSC, can I see the animals in rehab?

 We do not allow the public to come into our hospital areas. We must keep them as sanitary as possible and the animals who are there are very sick and in the process of rehabilitating. People in their area would stress them out even more, however, we do have a large screen TV monitor in our museum where you can view a live camera feed of the animals that are in the hospital and we display Patient Profiles on our Current Patients in House page! 

patient profiles

Do you tag animals you release?

 Yes! Seals get a small tag on their rear flipper and sea turtles get a small metal clip tag on their front flipper. If we have to relocate a seal, we will draw a number on its head using a non-toxic livestock marker (usually pink or orange) before release. All of the identification methods we use do not hinder the movement of these animals. 

Can I help?

 Always! If you would like to help support our mission, we have various options. You may donate by purchasing a Seal Adoption, a One Time Donation, an Annual Membership, or you can directly purchase items in need from our Amazon Wishlist.

donation options

How do I volunteer?

 We have different types of volunteers that help the MMSC.


Stranding Volunteers are added to a call list where the stranding technicians will reach out when there is a stranding in the area, requesting any assistance the technicians may need. 


Poolhouse Volunteers are fitted into our spring intern schedule, filling in any shifts that the interns are not scheduled for. Duties are similar to that of an on-site spring intern, assisting with animal feedings, medications, and cleanings of the animal pens.


Education and Outreach Volunteers assist with fairs, festivals, farmers markets, and giving  tours in our museum when we are open to the public. 


We also offer internships for college students, click the button below for more information on our volunteer and internship opportunities!

more info

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  • Meet Our Pod
  • Virtual Tour
  • FAQ's
  • Ways to Donate
  • Stranding Statistics
  • Current Patients in House
  • Recently Released Seals
  • Past Patients
  • Rehabilitation Videos
  • Rescue & Release Videos
  • Summer Programs
  • Education Programs
  • Education Resources
  • Online Store
  • Sea Life Museum
  • Visit Us
  • Donor Wall
  • Memorials
  • Run for the Animals
  • Social Media
  • Blog
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions

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