REHOBOTH BEACH — Marine Education, Research and Rehabilitation Institute  rescued a young male gray seal pup othis week from the Gordon's Pond area in Rehoboth Beach. 

The seal was underweight and suffering from some bite wounds, most likely inflicted by other seals, according to  MERR officials.

Adult male seals can be very aggressive to the pups, and it is common to find these young seals with single to multiple bite wounds, officials said. 

The seal was otherwise "alert and feisty" during the rescue and transport. 

The seal is still undergoing diagnosis for any underlying conditions, and will ultimately be treated in a long-term rehabilitation facility in the Greater Atlantic Region, they said. 

MERR reminds beachgoers that seals can often be found resting on the beach and other areas at this time of the year. 

Beachgoers need to keep a distance of 150 feet from the animal, and keep dogs on a leash so that the seal can rest undisturbed and unstressed. 

Please call MERR at 228-5029 immediately so that they can assess the animal and determine the best course of action for the seal's wellbeing.