26 gray seals were recently found dead on the east coast of Rügen (Germany). However, the adult animals are said to have had no external injuries and were in good general condition. The Maritime Museum has filed a complaint.
The “unusual accumulation” of deaths since the beginning of October is “a cause for concern”, said SPD Environment Minister Till Backhaus (state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern).
First autopsies
The German Naval Museum in Stralsund has so far performed autopsies on three of the animals. Some animals had water in their lungs, indicating they had drowned, said Museum of Marine Mammals curator Judith Denkinger.
“All organs were healthy”
Most of the animals were very large: about 150 kilograms, about two meters long, and all were well fed. “All organs were also healthy.”
Denkinger did not rule out the possibility that the animals became entangled in traps – underwater nets – from which they could not get out. The Maritime Museum has filed a complaint against unknown persons.
Infection is excluded
Various authorities, including the police, are involved in determining the cause. An infection with bird flu pathogens, which can also be dangerous for marine mammals, is therefore excluded. Gray seals are relatives of harbor seals and are strictly protected.
The animals were nearly wiped out by hunting and environmental destruction, but their numbers have increased again in recent decades due to protective measures. About 30,000 animals live in the Baltic Sea.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
