There’s a seal on the beach, what to do? For starters: keep at least 30 meters distance. Do you have a dog with you then put/keep it on the leash and ask other people to do the same. Dogs and seals might hurt each other. Does the seal have a blue mark, then it’s already been checked by Ecomare’s animal caretakers and we’re keeping an eye on the seal.

 
Peace and quiet is vital

As agreed, upon in the Seal Agreement, a seal is not immediately taken to a rescue centre, unless it needs immediate help. First, it’s observed for at least 24 hours to check whether it actually needs rescuing. Peace and quiet is vital in this, hence the distance you should keep. Do not, under any circumstances, chase the seal back into the water. If you do, the seal will unnecessarily waste energy that it so badly needs. Are you worried about the seal, then call Ecomare at +31(0)2222-317741.

Observation

A seal that is under observation can be recognized by a mark with coloured paint. On Texel we use blue, in other places different colours are used. Very young pups are weighed to check whether the mother is coming to the little one to feed it. If their weight increases during the observation period than the mother apparently knows where to find the pup and nothing is wrong. If the pup loses weight, then it Is taken to our seal rescue centre.

To summarize:

• Stay at binocular distance and put the dog on a leash
• Ask the people around you to follow your example
• If you’re worried, call Ecomare at +31(0)222-317741