Fokarium Stacji Morskiej im. Prof. Krzysztofa Skóry, Marine mammal research center in Hel, Poland.
The Fokarium is a research and care facility for marine mammals in Hel equipped with rehabilitation pools, medical equipment, and research laboratories. The facility focuses on treating and studying Baltic Sea seals under the direction of the University of Gdańsk.
The facility began operations in 1999 after Balbin, a seal, was successfully rehabilitated and became the first animal treated at the Hel center. This successful case laid the foundation for the organization today.
The facility teaches both residents and visitors about marine mammals through hands-on observation of daily care routines and feeding sessions. This direct experience helps people understand why protecting these animals in the Baltic Sea matters.
Visitors can watch feeding sessions and care procedures that show how injured animals are treated and helped to recover. Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are advisable, especially if you plan to spend time in the outdoor areas where the pools are located.
The facility operates a round-the-clock rescue service that picks up injured marine animals found on Polish Baltic beaches and works into the night when needed. This allows animals to get help right away without waiting for regular hours.
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