A seal that has been traveling through the Netherlands was spotted in Aalsmeer this past weekend. Previously, it was seen in Utrecht and Amsterdam earlier this month.
- Seal spotted in Utrecht and Amsterdam.
- Seen again in Aalsmeer this weekend.
- Local boys excited to see the seal.
- Seal confirmed healthy by wildlife coordinator.
- Seal thrives in freshwater environments.
- Public advised to keep distance from seal.
On Saturday, 13-year-olds Siem and Mitch saw the seal swimming in a ditch between the Ringvaart and the Uiterweg. Siem’s mother shared his excitement with regional broadcaster NH, saying, “He was so proud to have seen it.”
Siem’s family frequently vacations on Vlieland, where seals are commonly seen. “It’s amazing for him to spot one so close to home,” his mother added.
On Sunday, a kitesurfer spotted the seal again in the Westeinderplassen. The kitesurfer described the encounter on Facebook, stating, “We were face to face. It looked at me and swam closer before diving under near the water tower.”
Seal’s Health Status
Emmy Venema, coordinator at the Pieterburen Seal Center, confirmed that it is the same seal. “We can identify it by specific features, such as its spot pattern and two bald patches on the right side of its neck,” she explained.
Venema noted that the seal is capable of thriving in inland waters, as they are opportunistic feeders that consume various types of fish. The seal appears to be in good health, so the center will not intervene at this time. However, they urge the public to keep their distance if they spot the animal.
As the seal continues its journey, local authorities encourage residents to report sightings while respecting the animal’s space.
