Authorities move in to stop illegal seal feeding at Hout Bay Harbour

A long-running problem at Hout Bay Harbour has prompted renewed action as authorities clamp down on people illegally feeding and harassing Cape fur seals to solicit money from visitors.

Image used for illustrative purposes/Julia Fiander/Unsplash

The Cape of Good Hope SPCA confirmed that it recently carried out a coordinated operation with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment and the City of Cape Town’s law enforcement teams. After several weeks of intelligence gathering, four people were arrested, as previously reported by EWN.

According to the SPCA, three suspects were taken into custody for feeding and disturbing seals in violation of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act and the Threatened or Protected Marine Species Regulations. A fourth person was arrested for obstructing an environmental official.

The organisation stresses that feeding seals is not a harmless tourist interaction. South Africa’s Biodiversity Act prohibits any restricted activity involving threatened or protected species without a permit. Offences can lead to penalties of up to five years in prison or fines reaching R5 million for first-time offenders, with even harsher consequences for repeat violations.

Authorities say money-driven interactions at the harbour have become increasingly aggressive, with some individuals charging tourists for photographs and encouraging them to touch the animals. This behaviour has resulted in several bite incidents, placing both people and seals at risk.

A dedicated task team will conduct ongoing enforcement through the busy festive season. Visitors can expect spot checks, undercover surveillance and uniformed patrols as officials work to protect wildlife and ensure responsible tourism at one of Cape Town’s most visited coastal hubs.