Unexplained Seal Deaths on Rügen Prompt Expanded Protection Measures

Authorities investigate unusual spike in seal deaths as Mecklenburg-Vorpommern mandates protective measures for fishing gear.

Over 44 dead seals were found along the southeastern coast of Rügen in October, far exceeding the annual average of 40–50 for the entire Mecklenburg-Vorpommern coastline.
Preliminary investigations suggest the seals may have died from drowning, potentially linked to fishing nets or traps, though no definitive cause has been established.
A large fishing trap near Thiessow was temporarily suspected but showed no irregularities upon inspection, and its removal coincided with a decline in deaths.
Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's environment minister announced plans to expand mandatory protective measures for fishing traps across the entire coastline as a precautionary step.
Authorities, including the state fisheries office, marine experts, and law enforcement, continue to investigate, with further autopsies and analyses expected to extend into next year.