The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has issued a stark warning following an incident involving a seal and a group of kayakers in Hout Bay, reports Cape {town} Etc.
KOEKENAAP, SOUTH AFRICA – NOVEMBER 22: A Cape fur seal seen near Seal Island close to Koekenaap on the West Coast on November 22, 2020. The Cape fur seal or African fur seal is the largest of all the fur seal varieties. Its stocky, strong body is covered with a velvety dark grey or brown fur. (Photo by Gallo Images/Nardus Engelbrecht)
The incident unfolded last Saturday when a seal attacked the group, resulting in serious injuries to one of the kayakers’ guides, whose elbow was severely harmed in the altercation.
The alarming event was first brought to light by Peter Flentov from the Atlantic Seaboard Community Forum, illuminating the dangers that can emerge when humans venture into aquatic environments frequented by wildlife.
Authorities wasted no time responding, as both the NSRI and the City of Cape Town swiftly intervened.
NSRI said that City confirmed that it has removed two seals from the vicinity—a move prompted by concerns following the Saturday incident and another seal from Duiker Island being relocated just days later.
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The NSRI provided a grim reminder that rabies is endemic in the local Cape fur seal population.
In a statement released on Thursday afternoon, the rescue organisation noted that rabies within these seals is a developing concern along certain parts of the coastline.
‘Epidemiological patterns suggest that isolated flare-ups may occur from time to time within specific colonies. Current indications are that the Duiker Island colony may be experiencing such a flare,’ they highlighted.
As seal encounters become increasingly common along the coast, the NSRI has emphasised the importance of vigilance among water users. They advise all swimmers, paddlers, divers, and boaters to exercise sensible precautions, including:
- Not approaching seals in the water or on land.
- Never swimming or paddling alone.
- Using brightly coloured tow floats and carrying safety whistles.
- Keeping a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof pouch while on the water.
- Downloading the NSRI’s free SafeTRX tracking app.
- Keeping water and a basic first-aid kit in your vehicle.
- Reporting any aggressive or unusual seal behaviour to the City of Cape Town on 021 480 7700.
Should you encounter a seal displaying aggressive or rabid behaviour, the NSRI insists on taking immediate action. Observed signs of rabies may include unusual aggression, disorientation, excessive drooling, or paralysis. The correct response is to:
- Exit the water calmly and immediately.
- Maintain a safe distance from the animal.
- Do not attempt to assist or handle the creature.
- Follow any beach closures or official safety advisories.
Pet owners are also urged to keep their dogs leashed and at a distance from seals or seal carcasses to avoid any confrontations.
In the wake of such encounters, the NSRI stresses the urgency for public awareness, advising that anyone bitten, scratched, or exposed to seal saliva should wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water, then swiftly seek medical attention.
Article shared by Cape Town Etc.
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