A sad milestone

May 8, 2024 marks the commemoration of a sad milestone. On this day, Zeehondencentrum Pieterburen was able to liberate the 40th seal victim from entanglement, which would have eventually proved fatal for the seal. This brings the total number of reported entanglements to the same level as the entire previous year. An alarming increase.

The young Grey Seal was found on the beach of Camperduin, entangled in a fishing net. It was a gill net spanning several meters. Fortunately, a passerby spotted the animal and reported it to the local Seal Guardian. Responding swiftly, they managed to free the seal on the spot.

The seal centers are concerned about this significant increase in the reported numbers of entanglements. Besides fishing nets, Seal Guardians also encounter animals entangled in materials such as potato sacks, frisbees, rubber rings, construction plastic, ship ropes, and fishing lines.

Due to the increase in these specific situations, the three seal centers (A Seal, Ecomare, and Zeehondencentrum Pieterburen) have established the Seal Response Team to provide on-site assistance to entangled animals. More information about this collaboration can be found at:

Please note: While writing this press release, seal number 41 was found on the beach of Schiermonnikoog. Unfortunately, the animal fled into the water before assistance could be provided.