Seal Reserves Help Sustain Seal Populations
In 2001 seven seal reserves were established by statute in state-owned sea waters. The main purpose of these reserves is to protect Grey Seals (Halichoerus grypus) and their habitats.
Some of these areas are also important for the preservation of the Ringed Seal (Phoca hispida botnica ).
These areas are managed by Metsähallitus. Established seal reserves not only protect but also further the research of seals and the tracking of seal populations.
Rocky islets which are the seal’s habitat are also valuable marine biotopes. The established reserves are all totally or partially part of the Natura 2000 network.
The outer boundary of each reserve is at least one nautical mile (1,852 m) from an islet or a group of islets seals inhabit. The combined area of these reserves measures 188 sq. km and covers 0.37% of Finland’s coastal waters.
The reserves are marked on official maps and charts. Their boundaries area not marked outdoors in the terrain.
Seal Reserves
- Sandkallan-Stora Kölhällen
- Kallbådan
- Mastbådan
- Grimsörarna
- Södra Sandbäck-Sandbäck
- Snipansgrund-Medelkalla
- Möyly
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