The SAAMBR and greater Durban community are mourning the peaceful passing of Jabu, a beloved and iconic seal who was an integral part of their conservation mission for nearly three decades.
Durban, South Africa (07 July 2025) – There is one less friendly face at the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR) as staff mourn Jabu, a beloved seal who passed away peacefully last week.
Jabu played a significant role in SAAMBR’s mission of connecting people with the ocean and promoting marine conservation.
“Jabu was the oldest member of our seal family and had been with us since 1996, after he was rescued from a beach in the Eastern Cape shortly after a huge storm hit the area,” the SAAMBR team shared.
Jabu was estimated to have been about four years old at that time, making him approximately 33 years old.
“Jabu was an icon and a legend in his own right. He brought so much joy not only to the staff but also to the millions of guests who met him during the daily shows. It was easy to fall in love with Jabu, whom we called our gentle giant.”
Over the past few years, Jabu began to slow down and showed signs of his age. Expert medical care allowed Jabu to reach an age a seal would not normally attain in the wild.
“He still enjoyed interacting with the animal care team and having little fishy snacks right up until the end.”
Although his passing was not unexpected, it has left a huge hole in the hearts of the SAAMBR team, many of whom have worked with him for nearly 30 years. One such staff member is Hayley Tennant, who managed to say a few words through her tears:
“Jabu was such a sweet soul, a true gentleman and a legend. His grace, strength and mischievous spirit have always been an inspiration to me. I am truly honoured to have known him and to have been part of his life for the past three decades. Rest in peace, beloved Jabu.”
Descibed by many as an incredibly soft soul and a joy to be around, social media users have responded with condolences to the team who cared for Jabu and heartfelt messages celebrating the adored seal.
“So sorry to hear this, SAAMBR team and Hayley. I know how much you all loved him. He will be fondly remembered, and his legacy will carry on in the continued education that all of you provide to so many people. He was a true ambassador for conservation. RIP, sweet boy,” one user shared.
Even for those who have only come to know about him through this tribute, it is not hard to see that this gentle giant lived a full life that impacted countless others throughout his years. Rest peacefully, Jabu.
Sources: South African Association for Marine Biological Research
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