Seal return to Rostock: New seal facility opens from July 3rd!

Seal return to Rostock: New seal facility opens from July 3rd!

An exciting chapter for the seals at Rostock Zoo begins. On June 25, 2025, the seals Susi, Gizmo and Sammy left the Marine Science Center (MSC) in Rostock. The move to the zoo's new seal area marks the final step before the official opening of the new seal facility on July 3rd. While her stay at the MSC was characterized by intensive care and medical attention, Susi will remain at the MSC for two weeks longer due to her age and minor health problems. Gizmo and Sammy, on the other hand, have already moved into the new saltwater pool, which is the heart of the modern facility.

The transport operation, in which the animals were carefully transported in special transport crates, was carefully planned. Guido Dehnhardt, the head of the MSC, expressed sadness about saying goodbye to the animals, but emphasized the successful cooperation within the project. The new seal facility will not only provide a new home for the three harbor seals, but also two South African fur seals, Eda and Alfie. This opens a further chapter in the species-appropriate keeping of marine mammals.

The new seal facility

With an investment volume of 12.5 million euros, the new seal enclosure at Rostock Zoo offers modern technology and species-appropriate husbandry. Visitors can observe the animals through large panoramic windows, which offers the opportunity to experience the fascinating creatures up close. On July 3, 2025, the opening of the facility will be celebrated with a family program that includes animal presentations, face painting and a wheel of fortune. On the opening weekend, on July 5th and 6th, a colorful program will be offered for animal lovers big and small from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

But the new facility not only represents the well-being of the animals, but it is also an important contribution to the protection of endangered seal species. Seals are considered endangered in Germany and are under protection, as a look at the situation of seals worldwide shows. For example, exploitation in the past has led to sharp declines in populations, and the threat of disease and environmental pollution remains a pressing problem today. IFAW has been committed to saving marine mammals for years and has launched numerous initiatives to promote coexistence with seals.

The return of the seals to the Rostock Zoo underlines the importance of species-appropriate animal husbandry and nature conservation. The new seal facility not only offers a safe home for the animals, but also invites you to learn more about these fascinating marine mammals. In 2025, in addition to the new seal enclosure, the Rostock Zoo will offer various features, including a traditional entrance and a café, to make the trip even more attractive for families.

What is particularly noteworthy is that the new living conditions for the seals contribute to the conservation of the species and raise awareness among visitors about the challenges these animals face due to human activities. The return of the seals to their new home is not only an emotional moment, but is also a sign of hope for the future of seals in the region.

For further information and details about the seal facility and the opening, those interested can read the articles der-warnemuender.de and ndr.de as well as a deeper insight into the situation of seals worldwide ifaw.org receive.