The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) Gordon’s Bay duty crew was activated after a large swordfish was found beaching in shallow surf during the turn of the high tide on Gordon’s Bay Beach on Tuesday evening.
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According to the report, the Gordon’s Bay duty crew received a request from the City of Cape Town Marine Animal Stranding Network (CoCT MASN) to assist a group of concerned residents who were attempting to help the swordfish get back out to see during the high tide peak.
Their efforts to refloat the swordfish, however, had not been successful.
An NSRI rescue crew, a CoCT MASN team, SAPS patrol officers and City law enforcement officers responded to the scene where the swordfish continued to beach itself while the SPCA was alerted.
The swordfish was sadly unable to return to the ocean and passed away.
It has since been removed for a Department of Environment scientific study.
‘It is unknown what caused the swordfish to beach although we suspect ill health,’ said the NSRI, which commended the group of concerned residents for trying their best to save the marine animal, as well as the rescue teams and officers for their swift response.
‘While these events are sad and understandably citizens want to do their best for the animal, we appeal to the public to avoid risking injury in these natural circumstances,’ added the rescue institute.
Sharing this sentiment, Helderberg Ocean Awareness Movement, a community Facebook group, urged the public to stay clear of beached animals and wait for trained professionals to arrive.
Remember that ‘if something comes out of the ocean, it most likely doesn’t want to be in it. Always contact the professionals,’ said group admin Lisa Starr. ‘This is a good emergency number to call: 021 480 7700.’
The group also commended Gail Hutchings, who shared the footage of the beached swordfish, for asking the crowd not to drag the swordfish back to the ocean by its tail.
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Picture: Gail Hutchings / Helderberg Ocean Awareness Movement / Facebook