After a head injury rendered this adorable little seal pup blind, the people at Alaska SeaLife Center (ASC) in Seward have been taking care of him. His name is Bryce, and he’s on a mission to thrive within his new environment, just as well as any full-sighted seal.
The good people at ASC have been hand-feeding him since his accident in late December.
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AP/Jenna Miller
Over time, they’ve noticed that Bryce has become quite the outgoing and curious character, unlike most harbor seals, who are typically skittish and shy.
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AP/Jenna Miller
Because of his outgoing personality, staff have started teaching him how to rely more on his senses of smell and hearing, in lieu of his sight.
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AP/Jenna Miller
Hearing cues, like a shaker, and olfactory cues, like distinctive smells, are used to teach Bryce how to function in his new environment.
The staff at ASC say that his improvement is truly impressive, but that he will unfortunately remain in captivity, even despite unexpected progress with his eyesight.
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AP/Jenna Miller
Hopefully, some day he’ll be able to see his handlers at the center instead of just smelling the yummy fish they feed him.
(via BuzzFeed)
Here is my question for Bryce: If you can’t see, why are your eyes so WIDE and ADORABLE? I’m not mad about it, just curious! Actually, don’t answer. Keep on doing exactly what you’re doing. I’m proud of you!
