Adventurous seal spotted in Ria Formosa

An adventurous seal (a long way from her usual haunts) has been spotted over the last few days in the Ria Formosa lagoon in the Algarve.

Authorities are monitoring the situation, and the possibility of a rescue operation has not been ruled out.

Several people have come across the seal, which appears to find a fairly visible place to rest whenever the tide changes.

More a native to northern waters, it is rare to see a ‘harbour seal’ (as this one is) so far south.

Portugal’s Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests (ICNF) has been tracking its movements, and seems to think the seal has been taking in the sights. She was first spotted at the Berlengas islands (above Lisbon, near Peniche), and then last weekend in Ericeira.

With a visible ‘old wound’ down by her tail, but no signs of infection, a rescue is currently considered unnecessary. The seal is expected to continue swimming around the lagoon for as she likes.

The ICNF appeal is for people to keep their distance, and avoid any interaction. Just let Nature take its course.

Source: SIC Notícias

Natasha Donn

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.