A SEAL has garnered a lot of attention on uMhlanga’s Eastmoor Crescent beach after it was spotted resting on the shoreline on Friday morning. While the marine mammal looks in good health, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife and lifeguards are on site to look after the animal.
According to the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (Saambr), a number of seals have been spotted along the KZN coastline as the country is in ‘seal season’.
“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.
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This video shared from the uMhlanga Urban Improvement Precinct (UIP) shows the seal just resting on the beach.
“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. 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),” Saambr spokesperson, Ann Kunz said.
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What to do:
1. Contact uShaka Sea World.
2. Send us a photo of seal.
Guidance will be given to first responders on beach via phone as each situation is different.
3. Cordon off a 5m perimeter around 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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