66 Cape Fur Seals have been rescued from tangled troubles this year already, thanks to seal heroes and their invisible capes!
Cape Town, South Africa (09 September 2024) — In an ideal world, Cape Fur Seals would be able to follow their curiosity without the risk of ending up in a plastic problem or rope-ridden tangle. However, until we get to a place where our oceans are free of man-made troubles, seal entanglements continue to persist as a serious problem for our friends with flippers.
The very good news is that there are people who are prepared for entanglement emergencies and they have risen to the occasion not once, not twice, but multiple times this year already—rescuing 66 Cape Fur Seals from their tangled troubles so far!
People like Ayanda Cimani, Martine Viljoen, Abdullah Abrahams and others are part of the Seal Heroes squad who have successfully saved the lives of these marine mammals thanks to their quick-thinking and fast-acting, experienced responses.
However, for the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation (TOAF), the good news is tainted with a serious reality—our oceans have a waste problem.
“While we are proud of this achievement, we are mindful of the meaning behind it. 66 seals were found entangled in nylon, rope, plastic, raffia, box bands, and other materials. Thanks to the efforts of our team, we were able to rescue these seals before their entanglements had more dire consequences.”
The Two Oceans Aquarium informs that if seals are left in a state of entanglement, the materials can cut into their flesh; causing wounds that can lead to the death of the seal.
While the first line of action is to not litter in the first place, you can also become a seal hero by letting the team know when a seal is in trouble.
If you spot a seal entangled at the V&A Marina, make sure to call the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation on (021) 418 3823.
Meanwhile, in other news from the TOAF, September marks the start of ‘Green Season’—a time to keep your eye out for green turtles who have washed astray on our coastlines. You can read all about it, here.
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