Living along the coastline means that it’s not uncommon to come across a fur seal or two. More often than not, the creature has probably hauled out for a rest and is fine to be left alone.
In the unfortunate incident that you come across a fur seal that is injured or in need of help, professionals have developed a response protocol for the public to follow.
Single seal walking towards the water. Wild seal at cape cross in Namibia. African wildlife, nature and animal photography.
How to know whether the seal needs assistance or not:
- The sea is entangled in fishing line, plastic, rope, or other debris
- The seal is very thin/ severely emaciated
- The seal is discharging fluids or is seriously injured
If the seal is not displaying any of the above behaviour or physical ailments, it must not be disturbed.
Protocol when finding a stranded seal:
- Should you find a visibly sick, injured, or dying seal, the first thing you should do is contact the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). The SPCA will then co-ordinate a necessary response and contact any other organisations required.
- Relay important information such as location, the seal’s behaviour, and the physical condition of the animal.
- Stay away from the seal, while explaining to any passersby that assistance is on the way.
- Keep dogs away from the seal.
What not to do:
- Do not touch the seal
- Do not try to feed the seal
- Do not try to help the seal get back into the water
- Do not approach the seal
- How to know whether the seal needs assistance or not
Durban SPCA: +27 83 212 6103
Gqeberha SPCA: +27 41 992 3016
Cape Town SPCA: +27 21 700 4140
Pictures: GettyImages
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