The Ecomare Nature Center on Texel is treating a seal pup for the first time that has plastic and wood debris in its stomach. Caretakers have never witnessed such clear evidence of sea pollution before.
Marion Barth, the center’s director, described the situation as “a confronting proof of reality.” The pup, named Freek, was brought in on January 1 after being spotted alone on the coast for a week. Severely weakened, the pup needed immediate care.
At the center, Freek was given an oral rehydration solution to restore fluid balance. Upon vomiting, the pup expelled pieces of plastic and wood, and continued to do so in the following days.
Ecomare has never encountered such a case before, although it’s known that seals, porpoises, and birds can ingest floating debris. Freek is severely malnourished and his survival is uncertain.
However, he is in quarantine and has started eating fish again independently, according to Barth as reported by NH.
Source: NOS