Spotted Seal Rescue Center

Spotted Seal Rescue Center, operated by the Liaoning Ocean and Fisheries Science Research Institute (辽宁省海洋水产科学研究院), is China’s leading facility dedicated to the care and conservation of the spotted seal (Phoca largha), a species under top-tier national protection and affectionately known as the “panda of the sea.”

Located in Dalian, Liaoning Province, the center plays a vital role in rescuing seals affected by entanglement, injury, illness, and even poaching. It also breeds spotted seals in captivity and prepares them for release into the wild through survival training and gradual acclimatization. These efforts are coordinated with the nearby Dalian National Spotted Seal Nature Reserve, which provides a protected habitat for wild populations.

Since its founding, the center has rescued hundreds of seals, with over 75% successfully rehabilitated and released back into the ocean. Each release is carefully monitored, often using satellite tags to track the animals’ post-release behavior, migration routes, and survival rates. This data contributes to broader conservation research and helps refine rehabilitation protocols.

The Institute also houses the Rare Marine Animal Conservation Research Laboratory, which studies not only spotted seals but also other vulnerable marine species. Researchers monitor population trends, seasonal migrations into Liaodong Bay, and the impact of climate change and human activity on seal habitats.

Public awareness campaigns, such as Spotted Seal Conservation Day held annually on April 16, help educate local communities and celebrate successful releases. Though not open to casual visitors, the center occasionally collaborates with media and educational institutions to share its work and promote marine conservation.