Coast KZN

State of the Coast: KZN
State of the Coast: KZN

State of the Coast: KwaZulu-Natal Chapter 1: Introduction & Background Chapter 2: Overarching Drivers Chapter 3: Climate Variability
Chapter 4: Coastal Environment Chapter 5: Estuarine Environment Chapter 6: Marine Environment Chapter 7: Human Environment Chapter 8: Economic Environment
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The Profile of the KZN Coast
The Profile of the KZN Coast

Ugu Lwethu- Our Coast Defining the Coastal Zone The Physical and Coastal Environment Coastal and Marine Ecosystems
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Estuaries

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Recreation

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Coastal risk and vulnerability

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Coastal issues

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29 Jun 2023

Rescued stranded seal makes it’s way back to the ocean

Yoshini Peruman (Southlands Sun)

A sub-Antarctic fur seal, which became stranded on Treasure Beach, had successful rehabilitation and was released back into the ocean.

The seal was treated by the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR) veterinary team, who rescued the seal, after it hauled onto the beach recently and was spotted by beachgoers. According to SAAMBR veterinary staff, although the seal showed no signs of external trauma, it appeared a little underweight and was understandably lethargic.

After consultation with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, the decision was made to transport the seal to uShaka Sea World for rest and recuperation. SAAMBR’s clinical veterinarian, Dr Caryl Knox said, “Although the seal presents as quite feisty, he appears a little underweight so to give him a helping hand, we administered fluids and supplements.”

It is not uncommon for sub-Antarctic fur seals to rest on KZN beaches at this time of the year before continuing their travels across the ocean.

“Unless the seal appears compromised or it is felt the seal is being disturbed by people or dogs, the approved decision is always to leave the seal to rest naturally on the beach. Unfortunately, in this instance, it was clear that this was not a possibility.

“We are grateful to the members of public who contacted the KZN Stranding Network and shared information that a seal had stranded on the beach,” added Knox.

Being the first seal patient admitted to the SAAMBR rehabilitation facility this year, the seal quickly became quite the celebrity, and everyone wanted to name him. Eventually, staff settled on his name and he was named Armand, after one of SAAMBR’s technical staff members. After receiving rehydration fluids and resting soundly for two days, he seemed to have regained most of his strength and the decision was made to relocate him to a quiet beach in a marine protected area on the KZN lower south coast.

Before leaving uShaka Sea World, a small patch on his rear was painted white so that he can be identified, if and when he hauls out again along the KZN coastline.

GP Security kindly offered to stand guard over Armand until he was fully rested and headed back into the ocean on his journey home.

“If beachgoers happen to see him, they can take a photograph or video and send it to us. Please do not disturb Armand or any other resting seal. Armand needs to conserve every ounce of his vital energy for the long journey home,” Knox said.

Posing next to or close to a seal is dangerous, as is trying to touch, feed or poke the animal. Don’t crowd around the seal and always maintain a minimum distance of 20 m between you and the seal.

“These animals naturally want to rest on the beach. Please leave them in peace and don’t chase them. It is really important to keep your dogs away from the animal. With your help, these special visitors to our coast will be able to enjoy KZN’s love, care, and hospitality before embarking on their long journey home,” added Knox.

Should you see an injured or stranded animal, contact the KZN Marine Stranding Network stranded animal network on 031 328 8222 or 031 328 8060.

 

 

Online Article