Freek, a seal pup cared for at Ecomare on Texel since January 1, was found dead. He was the first seal known to have ingested plastic and wood debris.
Freek was brought to the center weakened and received a saline solution, which he vomited along with plastic and wood fragments. Despite efforts to improve his health, Freek succumbed.
Marion Barth, Ecomare’s director, confirmed his death on Saturday. Caretakers were optimistic about his recovery, but his condition remained fragile.
The incident highlights the impact of ocean pollution, which has affected seals, porpoises, and birds, though the visible consequences had not been observed so starkly before.
Source: NOS