Dobby is back at sea!
Dobby, an elephant seal, had washed ashore on Garvies Beach on the Bluff earlier this year.
AFTER three days at sea, Dobby was successfully released into the Agulhas current on Friday morning, 4 June. His transport crate was lowered down the stern of the M/V Golden Karoo vessel.
Dobby, an elephant seal, had washed ashore on Garvies Beach on the Bluff earlier this year. According to the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR), who took him in on Friday, 12 February has made great strides and made a full recovery after suffering an injury to his jaw.
Once his crate had reached the surface of the ocean, the gate was lifted and Dobby wasted no time in diving into the ocean. “He reappeared a few seconds later about 100 meters from the ship and then headed off at great speed,” reads a statement from SAAMBR. Whilst on-board the vessel Dobby received VIP treatment after winning the hearts of the entire crew who made sure that he was safe and secure throughout the journey.
“We trust that Dobby will make his way home over the next few weeks. If we are very fortunate, one of the marine scientists working on one of the southern islands will be able to identify him by the number on his flipper tag. “We are most grateful to MACS Maritime Carrier Shipping (Pty) Ltd and the crew from the M/V Golden Karoo for their sponsorship and unwavering support in the final chapter of Dobby’s rehabilitation programme.
“We wish Dobby well and hope he enjoys many more years hunting and exploring the southern oceans,” said the SAAMBR.
