Graversen family enjoys successful seal safari in Øresund, Denmark

The Graversen family recently enjoyed a successful seal safari in Øresund, where they spotted over 100 seals. Daniel Graversen expressed excitement about observing the seals in Denmark, noting, “You think this is something that happens in Greenland, but now we see them here.”

The seal safari was organized by the Øresund Aquarium, part of the University of Copenhagen, and marine biologist Catharina Marcussen highlighted a rise in the seal population in Denmark in recent years. “Seal populations are growing in most areas of the country, which is something we are very pleased about,” she stated.

Anders Galatius, a senior researcher at the Aarhus University Institute for Ecoscience, also acknowledged an increase in seals in the southwestern Baltic Sea, which includes Øresund. He observed that counts at resting sites revealed more seals.

This year, a ban on cod fishing has been implemented across the entire Baltic Sea, including the Øresund Strait. Marcussen believes this ban may attract more seals to Denmark as they now have access to abundant small cod, a preferred food source. However, Galatius doubts the fishing ban is a significant factor, explaining that seals are generalists and can thrive on various food sources.

Both experts indicate the likelihood of seeing more seals along Danish shores in the future, provided the marine environment remains healthy and fish populations are sustainable. Galatius also noted that restrictions on bottom trawling in Øresund may make this area less depleted than others, potentially drawing in more seals.

After their safari, the Graversen family was thrilled by the experience, with Daniel Graversen expressing hope for even more seals in the future, underscoring the importance of a healthy marine environment for these creatures.