The Belgian coast is seeing a rapid increase in the number of seals, according to recent figures from the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences and a report from Flemish association Natuurpunt.
Common and Grey Seal populations are making the Belgian coast their home, with Common Seal pups resting on the beaches during the summer, and English-born Grey Seal pups arriving in winter.
The populations of these seals have risen in recent years, based on aerial observations from the Institute. In 2017, close to one seal was spotted per 100,000 nautical miles; this figure has increased nine-fold five years later. In 2022, the institute spotted 20 and 40 seals in March and October respectively – monthly highs since records began.
In 2022, 54 seals were found stranded on the shore, including ten Common Seals and 18 Grey Seals. Many had been decapitated, predominantly due to entanglement in fishing nets.
Seals are found not only on the coast but also further inland. Several have been sighted on the River Scheldt due to its direct link with the sea. Typically, they manage to return to the sea unaided.
Whilst on land, seals primarily seek rest. Consequently, the public is advised to allow any seals they encounter on the beach to rest, maintaining a distance of at least 30 metres. Dog owners are also urged to keep their pets on a lead.
