Known as the "giant pandas of the sea," spotted seals in the Western Pacific are a national first-class protected animal and the only pinniped marine mammal that breeds in Chinese domestic waters. Situated at the convergence of the Yellow and Bohai Seas, Changdao has become a core refueling stop and critical habitat on the seals' migration route thanks to its unique marine conditions. Today, spotted seals have transitioned from seasonal "migrants" into island "residents."
Spotted seals regularly visit Changdao from late February to early May, with migration peaking in mid-March. Seal Reef in the western waters is their favorite gathering spot, featuring abundant reefs, fish, and shrimp. Here, herds of seals lazily sunbathe on the rocks—flipping on their backs, resting on their sides, and slapping their bellies with their tails in a charming display. The warm sunlight helps them molt and regain energy, while providing a natural nursery for pups learning to hunt. By late May, most seals set off north to escape the summer heat.
Ongoing ecological restoration is the main reason Changdao has successfully retained these seals. Local authorities have dismantled marine aquaculture rafts, restored seagrass beds, deployed artificial reefs, and stocked marine life—ensuring clean water and a rich, year-round food supply. Combined with strict protective measures, human disturbance has dropped significantly, creating an ideal habitat for elderly, frail, and locally born seals. Monitoring data shows the resident seal population has grown from three or four in earlier years to seven today. Researchers have even spotted newborn pups in the area, signaling a gradual expansion of their breeding range.
According to Wu Zhongxun, Deputy Director of the Changdao National Marine Park Management Center, the local government established the Miaodao Archipelago Seal Provincial Nature Reserve to protect the species. They installed offshore electronic fences and high-definition surveillance while running regular boat and drone patrols to minimize human interference. Working with professional research teams, they have also conducted facial recognition and DNA sampling studies for seven consecutive years to map migration patterns, creating individual profiles for all seven resident seals.
The growing resident seal population provides clear proof of Changdao's recovering marine ecosystem. Along the shores of the Yellow and Bohai Seas, a picture of harmony between humans and marine life is taking root for the long term.
Reporter: Hu Wolong, Yu Zelian, Sheng Yuhan, Song Qingxian
Cameramen: Changdao Marine Ecological Civilization Comprehensive Experimental Zone Media Center
Video Editor: Rainy
English Editor: Ella Qu, Darius
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