VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center’s harbor seal, Monty, passed away unexpectedly during a diagnostic procedure on Monday, the Aquarium announced on Tuesday.
Monty was sedated for X-rays and ultrasound as part of a gastrointestinal assessment when he passed away, the Aquarium stated in a press release.
“The Virginia Aquarium team has heavy hearts as they share this news and grieve this significant loss,” the news release stated. “The Virginia Aquarium appreciates the community’s thoughts and support during this difficult time. Monty was well-loved by staff and was an incredible ambassador, engaging with guests as they arrived at the Aquarium. He will be greatly missed by all.”
Born in the spring of 2020, Monty was rescued and rehabilitated three times by the National Marine Life Center in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, before being deemed non-releasable. He moved to the Virginia Aquarium in June 2021 and lived with Rudder, Hector, and Javier on exhibit.
Monty was known for high-energy behaviors and activities, including jumping high out of the water and following guests around the exhibit, the Aquarium said.
The veterinary team will be conducting a necropsy for further investigation.
This is the second animal this year at the Virginia Aquarium to die during a medical procedure. In April, a 12-year-old North American river otter named Sheldon died unexpectedly during a routine annual exam.