Grey seal numbers rise in Wadden Sea and Heligoland

The number of grey seals inhabiting the Wadden Sea and Heligoland continues its upward trajectory, according to new counts by experts from Germany, Denmark, and the Netherlands. During the molting period in March and April 2026, a total of 12,497 seals were counted, marking a 3.6% increase from the previous year.

This latest figure signifies a continuation of the population growth observed in recent years. Experts noted that over the past five years, the grey seal population in the Wadden Sea region has grown by an average of 6.8% annually. The majority of the seals, 8,981 individuals, were recorded in the Dutch part of the Wadden Sea.

Scientists observed a notable increase in the Schleswig-Holstein part of the Wadden Sea, where the seal population nearly doubled to 957 animals compared to the previous year. In contrast, the populations in the Wadden Sea off Lower Saxony and on Heligoland saw slight decreases, with 1,222 and 989 seals counted, respectively.

Grey seals are the largest predators in Germany and are one of two seal species found in the Wadden Sea, alongside harbor seals. They were once nearly extinct in the area. The counts are conducted through aerial surveys during winter and spring.

Furthermore, the number of newborn grey seals, known as pups, saw a significant rise of nearly 11% to 3,385. This follows the typical pupping season from November to January. Over the past five years, the number of pups has grown by an average of 12% annually. Most pups were born in the Dutch Wadden Sea (1,731), followed by Heligoland (1,077) and Lower Saxony (575). The trilateral expert group suggests these numbers indicate a continuous eastward expansion of grey seals within the Wadden Sea.