Durban
An adult male sub Antartic fur seal surprised beachgoers when it popped up on the rocks near the uMhlanga Lighhouse this week – apparently to rest.
uMhlanga Urban Improvement Precinct (UIP) operational manager, Dewet Geldenhuys, said the seal was first spotted on Sunday night by people walking on the promenade.
“It seems to be having a rest and enjoying Durban’s autumn sun,” he said.
On Monday it went into the water several times. Guards from UIP cordoned off the area to ensure the animal was not disturbed.
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Marine Ecologist, Jennifer Olbers, said seals could grow up to 160kg and live to 25 years of age. Last year seven seals came ashore across the province when the weather turned cooler.
“The seal’s position on the rocks is deterring Ezemvelo from capturing it and moving it to a safer location. We are hoping it moves onto the sand, which is less dangerous for the seal and staff during capture,” Olbers said.
While it appeared healthy, if they could capture it safely, Ezemvelo would transport it to uShaka Sea World for a health assessment before transporting it to a protected beach, such as Mpenjati on the South Coast, she said.
“Although seal breeding grounds in South Africa include Marion and Prince Edward islands, these animals often follow fish and travel vast distances. They are known to be associated with the sardine run and come ashore to rest but often return to the water by themselves when ready,” Olbers said.
“However, the animals come out of the water for a reason and it is up to the KZN Stranding Network to determine the best action for the seal. And that was to leave the seal on the beach to digest its food and let it return to the water on its own,” Olbers added.
Seaworld spokeswoman, Ann Kunz, said the seal was between 7 and 8-years-old.
“Seals often come ashore in the evening to rest under darkness. The seal is far from home. This was not its home range. Something could have gone wrong. It is thin and does not seem to be injured,” Kunz said.
Kunz said she hoped the seal had had a good rest yesterday and would use the high tide to swim home. She said people should welcome the “holiday-maker” and show it some respect by keeping their distance.
If you come across a stranded or beached mammal contact Ezemvelo’s 24-hour hotline at 083 380 6298.