By Elisela Rojas & Team redlobito.com

As veterinarians specializing in marine mammal care, we understand the unique needs and requirements of seals. These fascinating creatures require meticulous attention to their health and well-being. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the essential aspects of seal care and feeding, ensuring that these magnificent animals thrive in their environments.

Understanding Seal Species

Seals belong to the Pinnipedia family, which includes both seals and sea lions. There are various species of seals, each with specific characteristics and habitats. The two primary categories of seals are true seals (Phocidae) and eared seals (Otariidae). True seals, such as the harbor seal and the grey seal, lack external ear flaps and have shorter flippers, making them more agile in water than on land. Eared seals, including sea lions and fur seals, have visible ear flaps and larger flippers, allowing them to «walk» on land.

Habitat Requirements

Creating an optimal habitat for seals is crucial for their health and longevity. Seals require access to both water and land. The water should be clean, adequately filtered, and maintained at a temperature that mimics their natural environment. For most seals, water temperatures between 5°C and 15°C (41°F and 59°F) are ideal.

Water Quality and Maintenance

Maintaining high water quality is vital for seals’ health. This includes regular monitoring of pH levels, salinity, and bacterial counts. Filtration systems should be efficient enough to keep the water clean, while UV sterilization can help control pathogens. Regular water changes are necessary to remove waste products and ensure a healthy environment.

Land Areas and Enrichment

Seals need access to land areas for resting, breeding, and molting. These areas should be spacious, dry, and provide soft substrates like sand or pebbles. Enrichment activities, such as toys, puzzles, and varying terrains, can stimulate the seals mentally and physically, promoting natural behaviors and reducing stress.

Diet and Nutrition

Proper nutrition is essential for the health and well-being of seals. Their diet primarily consists of fish, squid, and other marine organisms. The nutritional requirements of seals can vary based on their species, age, health status, and activity level.

Feeding Practices

Seals should be fed a diet that replicates their natural feeding habits as closely as possible. Commonly fed fish species include herring, mackerel, and capelin. It is important to ensure that the fish are of high quality, free from contaminants, and stored properly to preserve their nutritional value.

Feeding Frequency and Amount

The frequency and amount of food required can vary. Typically, adult seals are fed 3-5% of their body weight in fish daily, divided into multiple meals to mimic natural foraging behaviors. Juvenile and pregnant seals may require more frequent feedings and higher caloric intake.

Supplementation

To ensure seals receive all necessary nutrients, vitamin and mineral supplements may be added to their diet. This is particularly important when feeding frozen fish, as the freezing process can reduce the nutritional content.

Health Monitoring and Veterinary Care

Regular health monitoring and veterinary care are crucial for detecting and addressing any health issues promptly.

Routine Health Checks

Routine health checks should include physical examinations, blood tests, and fecal analyses to monitor overall health and detect any early signs of illness. Regular weight monitoring is also important to ensure seals are maintaining a healthy body condition.

Common Health Issues

Some common health issues in seals include respiratory infections, gastrointestinal problems, and skin conditions. Prompt veterinary intervention and appropriate treatment are essential to manage these conditions effectively.

Parasite Control

Seals can be affected by both external and internal parasites. Regular deworming and parasite control measures should be implemented to maintain their health.

Vaccinations

Vaccination programs should be developed in consultation with a marine mammal veterinarian. Common vaccinations include those for distemper, influenza, and leptospirosis.

Breeding and Reproduction

Understanding the breeding and reproductive needs of seals is essential for maintaining healthy populations.

Mating and Gestation

Most seal species have specific breeding seasons, during which males and females come together to mate. Gestation periods can vary significantly between species, typically ranging from 9 to 12 months.

Pupping and Weaning

Seals usually give birth on land. The pupping areas should be quiet and free from disturbances. Pups are weaned on their mother’s milk for several weeks to months, depending on the species, before transitioning to solid food.

Behavioral and Social Needs

Seals are social animals that engage in various behaviors essential for their well-being.

Social Structure

Many seal species live in groups, and social interactions are important for their mental health. Providing opportunities for seals to interact with one another can help reduce stress and promote natural behaviors.

Enrichment and Training

Enrichment and training programs are beneficial for both the seals and their caregivers. Enrichment activities can include introducing new objects, sensory stimulation, and problem-solving tasks. Training, often using positive reinforcement techniques, can help in managing the seals during health checks and medical treatments.

Conclusion

Providing comprehensive care for seals involves understanding their specific needs and creating an environment that supports their physical and mental well-being. By focusing on proper habitat maintenance, nutrition, health monitoring, and enrichment, we can ensure that these remarkable marine mammals thrive in our care.