Camps Bay Beach in Cape Town was the scene of a rare wildlife event, with an elephant seal making an unexpected stop while undergoing its moulting process.
Story Summary:
- A rare elephant seal was spotted moulting on Camps Bay beach, prompting conservation groups to cordon off the area for its protection.
- Moulting, a natural process during which seals shed their skin and fur, requires the animals to spend extended periods on land.
- Authorities urge the public to keep a safe distance, secure pets, and report any sightings of distressed or unsafe seals.
Elephant seal spotted moulting in Camps Bay
The large marine mammal was spotted on Monday, drawing crowds of fascinated onlookers and sparking a flurry of activity from marine conservation groups.
Authorities cordoned off the area near Sonnekus, in front of the pump station, to protect both the seal and the public.
In a post, the Camps Bay Community Improvement District confirmed that the Law Enforcement Marine Unit, SPCA, and Shark Spotters collaborated to ensure the seal was not disturbed during this natural but vulnerable phase.
Two members from Marine Coastal Management were stationed to monitor the animal, which is expected to remain on the beach until its moulting is complete.
Conservation experts are urging people to maintain a safe distance and keep pets away from the seal to avoid stress or injury to the animal.
Facts you must know about elephant seals
Elephant seals are remarkable marine mammals, easily identified by their massive size and, in males, their distinctive trunk-like nose.
While they are typically found in colder waters near sub-Antarctic islands, individuals occasionally wander closer to shorelines during their moulting periods.
- Moulting process: Elephant seals shed their old skin and fur once a year in what is called a “catastrophic moult.” During this time, they spend extended periods on land to conserve energy.
- Diet: These seals primarily feed on squid and fish, diving as deep as 1,500 metres to hunt for food.
- Habitat: They are typically found in large colonies during breeding and moulting seasons but may venture far from their usual habitats.
- Conservation status: Elephant seals are protected by international wildlife laws, with their populations having rebounded after being hunted to near extinction in the 19th century.
What to do if you spot a seal moulting
Experts recommend the following precautions if you encounter a moulting seal:
- Keep your distance: Elephant seals may appear docile but can become aggressive if approached. Maintain at least 20 metres away.
- Secure your pets: Dogs and other animals should be kept on a leash or far from the seal to prevent any interaction.
- Do not feed or touch: Interfering with a wild animal’s natural behaviour can harm its health and disrupt the moulting process.
- Report sightings: If you spot a moulting seal in distress or in an unsafe location, contact your local SPCA or marine conservation authorities.
SPCA and the Law Enforcement Marine Unit have pledged to continue monitoring the Camps Bay seal to ensure its safety.
They also urge beachgoers to respect the cordoned area and avoid crowding.
