Every year seals wash ashore on our Belgian coast. These young puppies are sick, injured, exhausted and very emaciated. Separated from their mother, these animals have a very small chance of survival. The SOS Rescue Team of SEA LIFE Blankenberge takes care of these young seals and takes care of them in their own seal sanctuary. After three to four months of intensive care, the seals are released again.

Which species of seals do we rescue?

At SEA LIFE Blankenberge, we rescue two species of seals: the harbour seal (also called the common seal) and the grey seal.

The main characteristics of these two species are as follows:

Harbour seal:
The harbour seal is more frequently seen along the Belgian coast. They are born in summer. This seal is smaller than the grey seal, less aggressive, and more easily frightened by people.

Grey seal:
The grey seal is larger than the harbour seal (especially the male). Its snout is more pointed, and it is more aggressive than the harbour seal. Its head is also bigger, and its bites are stronger. Finally, it is also more agile than the harbour seal.

What should you do when you see a stranded seal on the beach?

Here are the procedures to follow if you see a stranded seal on the beach:

Observe the seal’s posture carefully:

  • Is it lying on its back? On its side? Does it look like a banana shape? Then it is healthy!

  • Is it lying on its belly? Then there is a chance it might be sick — but not always. You need to check several things: its body condition, any visible injuries, etc.

If it doesn’t seem healthy, or if you’re unsure of its condition, contact SEA LIFE Blankenberge immediately at the following number: 0477/34.58.90.

Make sure not to get too close to the seal. The minimum distance to keep is 20 metres.

Then, agree on the next steps with SEA LIFE.

Does SEA LIFE Blankenberge always have to rescue stranded seals?

Rescue is not always necessary. We must make sure to take the seal only if it truly needs help.

Removing a seal from nature unnecessarily can cause it a lot of stress.

Sometimes the seal is just resting and needs space. A mother might be out hunting, and the pup is simply waiting for her return. If too many people are gathered around, the mother might abandon the pup!

After a storm, many seals may haul out onto the beach just to rest. Seals can stay on the beach for 3 to 4 days without going back into the water and still be perfectly healthy. This is especially true for adult grey seals after the breeding season.

Health