Vissit Ecomare

Visit Ecomare

The seals are a definite must when you come to Texel. You can see them from very close by at the Ecomare seal sanctuary. Ecomare has much much more to offer too. It's the idea place for the whole family to have a fun and interesting day out.

The seal sanctuary
Far from all of the seals found on the beach need help. If a seal is crying, the mother is often close by and adult animals are sometimes just basking in the sun.
Ecomare rescues seals that wouldn't be able to survive by themselves: these are young animals that have lost their mothers and are unable to take care of themselves and animals that are weak as a result of illness. When they have recovered, they are returned to the Texel beach or to a sandbank in the Wadden Sea.
Ecomare has a number of permanent residents too. These include seals that cannot be returned to the wild because they are blind.
Twice a day, while feeding the seals, a carer talks to visitors about their quirks, how they live and their natural environment. It's great fun!

Porpoises
You will find porpoises at Ecomare too. Feeding time is used to check the health of these intelligent and likeable animals. Keepers look in their mouths and get them to roll over onto their backs.

Feeding times
The animals are fed several times a day and you can be there to watch it happen: 10.30 hours porpoises 11.30 hours seals 13.30 hours porpoises 14.30 hours fish 15.30 hours seals

Museum
In the museum section, visitors can learn how the island was created in the Ice Age. The big sea aquariums and their residents are a real must too. Extra (children's) activities are often organised in the holidays and various exhibitions are held throughout the year.

Shop
The Ecomare shop can be found near the cash desk in the hall. Here you will find great souvenirs and gifts as well as various books, field guides and maps. Please go to the reception if you have any nature-related questions.