The city of Ostend has created the first designated seal protection zone along the coast at Klein Strand to ensure the peace and safety of the animals.
At Klein Strand, visitors can often spot seals, which regularly come to rest there. To maintain their peace and safety, a permanent fence will now be installed, as many people disturb the seals by trying to get too close. This initiative aims to protect the seals while keeping the area safe for walkers, dogs, and visitors.
A permanent wooden fence will be erected from the Western Breakwater to the Westerstaketsel, running parallel to the sea. Even at low tide, this barrier will prevent walkers from reaching the seals. Visitors can still view the seals from a distance using the breakwater, the pier, or simply from the beach. The fencing will not be in the water, which will help it last longer. Swimming is prohibited in this area, but there is still ample space for walking.
Previously, the seal zone was fenced with temporary barriers that left an open space at low tide, allowing people and dogs to approach the seals. Volunteers had to monitor the area constantly. “Now, with a permanent setup along the entire length, it should relieve the volunteers somewhat. However, we will have to see how visitors and the animals react,” said Fabrice Goffin, Alderman for Animal Welfare.
According to Goffin, the measure was badly needed. “More and more seals come to rest on the beach here. We’ve even had up to eighteen seals at once, attracting hundreds of people wanting to take photos, which disturbed the animals greatly. Fortunately, they are now protected.” The volunteers will also have access to a beach cabin to shelter while on duty.
