After a loose seal was found wandering beside the highway on the Oregon coast, the animal was successfully located and returned to the ocean, authorities said.

After a loose seal was found wandering beside the highway on the Oregon coast, the animal was successfully located and returned to the ocean, authorities said.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office said deputies found the seal traveling alongside Highway 101, near Milepost 146, on the shoulder of the road on Saturday.

Out of concern for the animal’s safety, deputies acted quickly to corral it with a rope, preventing the seal from entering the road.

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“With the assistance of community members, a staff member from the Oregon Coast Aquarium was promptly notified and responded to the scene to secure our flippered friend,” the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office said in a press release. “We wish our new Pinniped pal all the best on his journey!”

The seal was returned to its watery home thanks in part to the assistance of the sheriff’s office, aquarium staff members and the Oregon State Police.

People who encounter animals on the Oregon coast in a road collision or other emergency situation should contact the local city police or OSP if they are on a state highway or state park, officials said.