SEAL SEASON is here and the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (Saambr), is urging beachgoers who come across seals resting on beaches along the KZN coastline to contact wildlife authorities.
The peak months for seal strandings are between May and August, according to Saambr.
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A number of seals have been spotted along the KZN coastline as the country is in ‘seal season’, Saambr confirmed.
“We’ve had a few reports coming to us from KZN beaches about seals coming ashore. Seals are often in good health when they come ashore, doing so merely to rest after a tiring swim from the southern Cape or even as far as Marion Island and Prince Edward Island, both of which belong to South Africa and lie in the sub-Antarctic Indian Ocean. They usually return to the ocean once they have rested, so it is vital not to disturb a resting seal and to leave it to recover in its own time before it begins its epic journey back home to Antarctic waters.”
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“It is up to Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife and the KZN Marine Stranding Network members to determine the best action for these animals. For instance, if the animal is found to be injured or sick, it might be best to transport it to uShaka Sea World’s rehabilitation facility (031- 328 8222 during office hours and 031 – 328 8060),” Ann Kunz of Saambr said.
If anyone happens to spot a seal on the shore Saambr suggests the following action:
1. Contact uShaka Sea World.
2. Send them a photo of the seal. Guidance will be given to first responders on beach via phone as each situation is different.
3. Cordon off a 5m perimeter around the seal.
4. Keep people and pets away.
Don’t:
1. Harass or chase seal back into the water.
2. Touch the seal.
3. Feed the seal.
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