"The overall number of dead seals is 928, including 710 baby seals. The coast is continuing to be monitored," he said.
Bodies of dead seals have been found along the Caspian shore. Poor weather is cited as a possible cause of death.
"Until February 20 most of the northeastern part of the sea did not freeze, and on February 21-22 the sea was covered with thin ice, that melted completely by March 20. Such conditions could have had a negative effect on the baby seals," the Ministry of Environmental Protection said.
Preliminary examinations have revealed the absence of heavy metals or pesticides in seal carcasses. Tests of the seawater, carried out in the area, have not indicated that any oil products are in the water.
In 2000, chronic intoxication killed 10,500 seals in the region. For several years the animals had been absorbing oil toxins and pesticides, which damaged their immune resistance, the experts said.
