Protection of Marine Mammals and Seabirds – Continuation

Summary

Marine mammals such as seals and the harbour porpoise are key species in the Baltic Sea, and important for its ecological function due to their role as top predators in the food chain. Both have experienced anthropogenic pressures arising from chemical pollution, overfishing, hunting and habitat loss. This has resulted in population declines and a majority of species present in the Baltic Sea are on HELCOM´s red list.

The project aimed to protect marine mammals and seabirds and their habitats from anthropogenic threats, mainly in the Vistula Lagoon. At Hel Marine Station, sick or injured seals were rehabilitated and released to their natural environment. The project also conducted continuous monitoring of seal and harbour porpoise movements, and alternative fishing gear was developed to limit the mortality of birds and mammals. The project also aimed to reduce disturbance of seals and seabirds from human activities through the presence of guards and monitoring of resting places.