An unexpected Antarctic traveller has hauled out along Cape Town’s coastline after an extraordinary journey of an estimated 4,000 to 4,500 kilometres from Antarctica, and marine authorities are asking the public to give her space, as per EWN reports.
Image used for illustrative purposes/Cornelius Ventures/Unsplash
Over the past week, sightings of the lone crabeater seal have circulated widely on social media, drawing curiosity and concern in equal measure. The rare visitor has since been acknowledged by the Two Oceans Aquarium and the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation, both of which have shared updates to help educate the public.
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A species seldom seen this far north
The seal is a crabeater seal — the most abundant seal species on the planet, yet one rarely encountered along the South African coastline. Typically, crabeater seals spend their lives around Antarctic ice floes.
Despite the misleading name, crabeater seals don’t eat crabs at all. Their finely structured teeth act like a sieve, allowing them to filter-feed on krill in icy waters.
This individual appears to be in no rush to leave. As Primedia Plus Digital Editor Barbara Friedman noted online, the seal seems to be enjoying a well-earned pause after an epic ocean crossing.
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Tagged, vaccinated and under close watch
According to updates from the Marine Wildlife Management, the seal has been assessed, tagged and vaccinated, and her movements are now being monitored.
Authorities have emphasised that local seal populations can carry rabies, making distance essential not just for the animal’s wellbeing, but for public safety too.
If you encounter the seal, officials urge:
- Keep at least 20 metres away
- Respect any cordoned-off areas
- Keep dogs on a leash
- No touching, feeding, or pouring water over her
A fleeting moment of coastal wonder
Photos shared online show the seal sprawled comfortably on the sand, with some viewers joking that she looks like she’s smiling. While such long-distance solo journeys are unusual, they’re not unheard of; large seals have occasionally been known to rest on South African beaches before continuing on their way.
For now, this Antarctic detour offers a rare reminder of the vast, interconnected oceans and a chance for Capetonians to witness something truly special, provided it’s done from a respectful distance.
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