The Two Oceans Aquarium and City of Cape Town work together to help seals in distress

22 March, 2025 - Marine Wildlife, Conservation, Foundation, Blog

This International Seal Day, the Two Oceans Aquarium shines a light on the iconic Cape fur seal! Capetonians are familiar with this curious, charismatic, and ubiquitous marine mammal with which they share their coastline. Due to recent incidents between people and seals on Cape Town’s beaches, the Two Oceans Aquarium and the City of Cape Town have collaborated to manage the situation.

“These fascinating animals are a common sight in Cape Town, though sometimes we encounter seals that are distressed, injured, or displaying unusual behaviour. These situations often require human intervention, and swift and responsible action is crucial,” said Martine Viljoen, Marine Wildlife Management Programme Manager.

The Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation’s Marine Wildlife Management Programme is proud to work closely with the City of Cape Town on a public awareness drive. Their focus is on providing training and veterinary support while building awareness amongst the public about what to do if they encounter a seal or other marine animal in distress. To assist residents and visitors to Cape Town in these situations, they have compiled this essential guide.

When to report a distressed seal?

Often, seals are found in seemingly unusual locations, which is not commonly a cause for concern as they require rest on land after covering large distances hunting at sea. In this case, it is advisable to keep a safe distance and leave the seal alone to rest. DO NOT encourage it back into the water or pour water over it – not only will this cause unnecessary stress, but if forced to return to the water before it is ready, the seal is in danger of fatigue.

However, there are times when immediate assistance is required. If a seal appears injured, entangled in plastic or fishing gear, hauled up in an unusual or dangerous area, or behaves erratically, it’s important to act.

Further signs of distress include erratic movement, repetitive thrashing of kelp, unprovoked aggression, or obvious disorientation. It's always best to err towards caution and contact the authorities! Prompt action can make all the difference in providing the necessary assistance for a distressed marine animal.

Who to call: Reporting distressed seals

The City of Cape Town has a dedicated system for reporting wildlife incidents and ensuring the appropriate response teams are notified. Below are the essential contact numbers you should keep on hand:

General wildlife concerns, including stranded or injured animals: City of Cape Town’s Call Centre (021 480 7700)
Reporting dead animals: Use the City of Cape Town’s online reporting system
Distressed animals in the V&A Waterfront area:Two Oceans Aquarium (021 418 3823)
Seal pups and yearlings in distress: Hout Bay Seal Rescue (Amos Lipenga: 062 674 1521/ Tracy Pendlebury: 082 334 4247)
Southern elephant seals, live strandings, and seals showing signs of aggression: Contact Gregg Oelofse (City of Cape Town Coastal Manager) directly (083 940 8143)

Cape Town has also been visited by a more unusual seal - Southern elephant seals are hauling out on our shores to moult. Members of the public can find useful information and important safety protocols here.

Why does reporting matter?

In a city like Cape Town where humans and wildlife intersect, distressed animals often face additional harm due to human activities. Without proper intervention, these situations can escalate. By reporting wildlife incidents, you help authorities respond promptly to protect the animals and prevent further harm.

“Not only does your report help the animal in distress, but it also contributes to broader wildlife conservation efforts. In cases like the recent seal rabies incidents, early reporting helps authorities take necessary steps to protect both wildlife and the public. In short, even beyond the welfare benefit of the distressed animal, your actions make a significant impact in helping to safeguard Cape Town’s marine life,” said Viljoen.

A Cape fur seal with a plastic band around its neck.

What to do while waiting for help?

If you come across a distressed seal, follow these steps while waiting for assistance:

Do not attempt to move, touch, or feed the animal: Wildlife can be unpredictable, and improper handling can cause further stress or injury.
Keep a safe distance and avoid drawing crowds: Distressed animals, including seals and seabirds, need space to recover. Crowds can increase their stress and lead to animals potentially harming careless bystanders or unleashed dogs.
Take a photo and note the exact location: This information will help responders find the animal more quickly.
Be patient: Response teams may be handling other emergencies, but they will get to the animal as soon as possible. Authorities will guide you on whether it’s necessary to stay with the animal.

“By acting responsibly and reporting distress cases to the right organisations, you are contributing to the conservation and welfare of Cape Town’s incredible marine life,” urged Claire Taylor, Two Oceans Aquarium Interactive Exhibits & Marine Animal Welfare Specialist.