Ostend (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Ostend built a 200-meter permanent wooden fence at Klein Strand to protect resting seals. Fabrice Goffin led the effort. It prevents disturbance from people and unleashed dogs.
As VRT News reported, a permanent fence has been installed around Ostend‘s Klein Strand to protect the seals. They mentioned that the beach, near the city centre, is a favourite spot for seals, with up to 18 resting there at once. These wild animals, often young and in need of rest, are sensitive to disturbances. However, curious beachgoers and unleashed dogs have caused issues.
People have gotten too close, trying to take photos or touch the seals, and dogs have startled or even bitten them. In response, the seals have bitten people or dogs, posing a health risk due to the potential for infections. These interactions stress the animals and create safety hazards for humans and pets.
How is Ostend protecting seals at Klein Strand with a new fence?
Ostend is now using a permanent fence at Klein Strand to protect its seals. Before, temporary fences were used, but they didn’t fully work because people and dogs could still get close to the seals at low tide. According to the officials, the new fence is strong and always in place, no matter the tide. It’s made to fit in with the beach.
They mentioned that there are also signs to teach people why it’s important to stay away and respect the seals. The goal is to keep the seals safe and also keep people and their pets safe. The fence stretches about 200 meters and creates a safe zone for the seals to rest without being disturbed.
Fabrice Goffin, who is in charge of animal welfare, said they want to ensure the seals have a peaceful place to stay. He mentioned that the new fence is much better than the temporary ones used before, as it effectively keeps people and pets away, even when the tide is low and the water line moves.
According to aldermen, the new fence in Ostend not only protects the seals but also helps the volunteers who watch over them. These volunteers make sure people stay away from the seals and teach them about respecting the animals.
This area at Klein Strand is the first official seal protection zone on the Belgian coast, which is a big step for animal care in the area, according to the city. People can still see the seals from a safe distance, either behind the fence or from a nearby spot.
