The South African National Stranding Network consists of several local networks spanning the whole coastline of South Africa, each playing an integral role in strandings response.
Some areas are covered more intensely than others, an example of a local network is the Greater Overberg Stranding Network, which stretches from Rooi-Els in the west to Stilbaai in the east.
It is comprised of more than 20 different organisations with approximately 100 responders, complemented by a Network of Naturalists, who are voluntary members of the public.
The response to strandings, whether seals, seabirds, turtles, sharks or cetaceans, is professional, collaborative and speedy.
Pooling of resources, robust data collection, sharing of information and thorough communication are key to successful operations.
Some members are specialists in research, others in animal welfare, some in veterinary science, while others are involved in wildlife rehabilitation and others in management of coastal areas.
Cape Fur Seal Yearlings
During our summer months there are often young seals ashore. They are usually quite thin. They have recently been weaned and are trying to make it on their own.
These animals need to be left completely undisturbed. They need to dry out, warm up and sleep, and will head back to sea once they are ready – sometimes after a couple of days.
Rabies
Rabies is present in the Cape fur seal population and can be transmitted between mammals. That means between seal species, seal-seal, seal-dog, seal-human etc.
DO NOT take any chances – ensure that your dogs are vaccinated and keep well clear of all species of seals ashore.
If a seal is acting strangely, or aggressively, please call your local municipality, SPCA or the numbers below immediately. Collect a video clip of the behaviour from a safe distance.
Disturbance
The recommended practice for keeping a safe distance from wildlife i.e. safe for both you and for them, varies depending on the species, habitat, and circumstances.
The rule of thumb is that if it lifts its head or turns to look at you, it is already disturbed, and you are too close. Stop what you are doing, and back off slowly:
* Stay 30m away at all times
* Keep quiet
* Dogs on leash
* No smoking
* Do not pour water on the animal
Important info to collect and report when you find an animal stranded or hauled out along our shore:
• Type of animal
• Position (preferably a locality pin)
• Estimated length
• Photographs
• Closest point of access
• Report this info to the appropriate numbers for your area (see below)
It is always better to err on the side of caution when interacting with any wildlife.
Keeping a safe distance helps to protect both humans and animals from potential harm.
* Article written by Meredith Thornton, National Stranding Coordinator.
