National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Man Rescues Entangled Seal on Martha's Vineyard

Fisherman Anthony Marcantonio says he didn't think twice when he noticed a seal was in distress.

Video of an incredible rescue on Martha's Vineyard has gone viral.

Fisherman Anthony Marcantonio said he was driving along Chappaquiddick Beach when he spotted a seal.

"All wrapped around its throat was a culmination of rope, a piece of lobster pot and piece of buoy here," he explained. "Absolutely a mess."

Marcantonio went to work. He said he instinctively grabbed his gloves and knife and began cutting away.

"Took my time and was able to get him out," explained Marcantonio.

The seal went right back into the ocean.

It surely was an act of kindness, but what he did is against the law. Marcantonio says he understands why.

"I got lucky," he said. "Did you see the teeth on those things? It could have gotten ugly real quick."

He said he has been in contact with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration since and now plans to become a certified marine responder, since the area currently does not have one. Marcantonio says the experience was absolutely worth it.

"I drove back down the beach a little ways. A seal popped up its head, maybe three feet away from me, and kind of stared at me," he said. "I don't know if it's the same one or not, but it would have been cool."

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