Ernie and Bert: First orphaned seal pups of the season arrive in Germany

Ernie and Bert, the first orphaned seal pups of the season, have arrived at the Norddeich Seal Station in Lower Saxony. The two young seals were discovered without their mothers on the islands of Borkum and Norderney in May. They are now being cared for and raised at the station with the goal of eventual release back into their natural habitat in the Wattenmeer.

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They will probably not be the only pups this season. The seal station usually takes in more than 150 seals and grey seals every year. These are orphaned, injured or sick animals.

Found weighing 8.3 and 7.9 kilograms respectively, Ernie and Bert first underwent observation to confirm they were truly abandoned before entering quarantine and then the rearing station. The Norddeich station typically cares for over 150 seals and grey seals annually, including orphaned, injured, or sick animals. A common cause for abandonment is disturbance by humans, especially during busy tourist periods.

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Pups are usually abandoned by their mothers because they are disturbed by humans - for example, on Ascension weekend with many tourists.

The station emphasizes the importance of maintaining a safe distance, recommending at least 300 meters from seals. The peak of the pupping and rearing season is expected in the third week of June, often leading to an increase in found pups. However, many seemingly abandoned young seals are merely left temporarily by their mothers while they forage for food. The station urges the public to contact them if they suspect a pup is orphaned, but notes that healthy, uninjured animals found after August are likely independent and do not need to be reported.

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If you suspect an orphaned pup, call the seal station. The experts will take care of it.