On Wednesday, 21 September 2022, a Cape fox was spotted at various urban locations in Table View, close to the Table Bay Nature Reserve.
Also read: Look! Whales can be seen frolicking in Cape Town waters
This is a very special sighting for the area as foxes are generally not spotted during the day as they are nocturnal species and are rarely found in urban spaces.
According to the city, it is believed that the healthy Cape fox was probably exploring the protected corridors in the Table Bay Nature Reserve the night before and found itself in unfamiliar territory during the day time, which might have caused the animal to take evasive action through the urban area.
The animal has not been seen since Wednesday afternoon, 21 September 2022, which indicates it probably found its way back to safety in the nature reserve.
The City’s Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment, Alderman Eddie Andrews urges the public to please report interesting wildlife sightings to the local nature reserve.
“The residents must please include a picture of the animal to assist with identification and for record keeping on our Biodiversity Database,” said Andrews.
However, trapped or injured animals, residents can should contact the local nature reserve or the SPCA’s Cape of Good Hope Wildlife Unit for assistance.
In addition, SANCCOB can be contacted for assistance with injured seabirds.
‘We need to be mindful that we are not the only creatures utilising our beautiful city spaces, especially areas close to protected areas and corridors. Although they are not often seen, we share these areas with special wildlife,” he added.
“The public is advised to never approach, feed, capture or keep any wildlife. This is against the law; also, there are trained staff mandated to attend to any animal in distress,” concludes Alderman Andrews.
Below is a list of useful contact numbers:
- Table Bay Nature Reserve: 021 444 0315
- Cape of Good Hope SPCA: 021 700 4140 and after hours: 083 326 1604
- SANCCOB: 021 557 6155 and for an emergency after hours: 078 638 3731
Reporting other wildlife in distress:
- Seals – contact the SPCA: 021 700 4158/9 or 083 326 1604
- Turtles – contact the Two Oceans Aquarium: 021 418 3823 or 083 326 1604
Also read:
Look! Whales captured frolicking along the coast with their young
Picture: City of Cape Town