Plettenberg Bay roleplayers’ response to recent aggressive behaviour by seals
In response to the recent incidents that occurred in Plettenberg Bay between the 6th and 9th January 2024 involving Cape Fur Seals and water users, relevant role players/stakeholders have put several protocols in place for public safety. These role players include Beach Control (Bitou Municipality), NSRI, Lifeguards, Shark Spotters, the Plettenberg Bay Marine Stranding Network, and seal-tourism operators.
Background and context:
Aggressive behaviour from Cape Fur Seals is unusual and could be attributed to several causes including heightened aggression by males during the breeding season (Nov – Feb), feeling threatened or being aggravated by humans who get too close or deliberately try to hurt seals, or from a disease or illness that results in altered behaviours.
The interactions observed over the past few days whereby bathers and a kayaker were subjected to aggression by lone seals, which resulted in minor lacerations to the bathers and damage to the kayak, are being taken seriously and every avenue available will be used to prevent further interactions and minimise the chances of further injury. However, based on similar situations elsewhere in South Africa, it is likely that these are one-off events that will not continue long-term.
Responses:
- Under direction from NSRI and Beach Control, the lifeguards and Shark Spotters are on high alert and will report any seals that come within close proximity of bathers. Bathers will be recalled from the water until such time as the seal/s move away from the area. This is a similar approach taken as to that when a shark is sighted.
- In the event that a person is injured by a seal, all role players (lifeguards, NSRI, first responders) are aware that wounds should be treated by a medical professional to prevent infection.
- Swim-with-seal tourism operators will maintain their current strict safety protocols before allowing swimmers in the water. These protocols include a through assessment of the seals behaviour at the Robberg Colony. If any unusual behaviours are observed, then the swimmers will be recalled from the water.
- The 2 incidents observed did not occur at the main Robberg Colony, suggesting that affected seals are acting alone and away from the colony.
- Marine mammal scientists and stranding responders will work with national institutions to ensure all necessary samples and test are done in an attempt to identify possible causes of this unusual behaviour.
- The public are advised to steer clear of any seals on the beaches or in the water, especially when swimming at parts of the beach that are not under direct observation by lifeguards. This advice stands at all times, not just as a result of the recent interactions.
Please report any unusual incidents or aggression by seals to either of the following organisations:
- NSRI: +27 (0)82 990 5975
- Plett Stranding Network: +27 (0)79 463 4837
