The Hout Bay Seal Rescue Centre (HBSRC) has condemned a brutal attack on a juvenile seal at Muizenberg Beach on Thursday morning, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Also read: Rabies blamed for increase in Cape fur seal attacks on city beaches
The non-profit condemned the attack after another seal was reportedly killed by people who mistakenly believed it had rabies.
Check out these budget-friendly offers under R100 000 and cruise through Cape Town in style. Find car listings here.
Rabies, a viral disease affecting the central nervous system of mammals, is transmitted through infected saliva, usually via bites, and is nearly always fatal once symptoms begin.
Since May, a total of 24 confirmed cases of rabies have been recorded in Cape Fur Seals.
HBSRC spokesperson Kim Krynauw said the non-profit was called to rescue a juvenile seal that had come ashore at Muizenberg Beach, IOl reports.
‘At about 9.30 am on Thursday, we received a call for assistance. One of our rescuers was immediately dispatched to attend to the scene,’ Krynauw said.
‘However, on arrival, she discovered that the seal was already dead on closer.’
‘Upon closer inspection, our team realised that the seal had been speared (stabbed) and had also sustained what looked like a head injury. This type of thing is happening more and more. We receive reports of seals being shot at, gaffed, and stabbed daily.’
Krynauw said the seal emerged from the water in distress and later died from its injuries.
The SPCA, City of Cape Town, and Law Enforcement were alerted, and the SPCA has taken the seal for further investigation.
Earlier this year, the HBSRC reported a sharp rise in injured Cape fur seals.
The organisation adds that this is the 3rd seal that’s been found hurt or dead at Surfers Corner in the past 5 months.
HBSRC urges the public to avoid seals, warning that feeding or harming them is illegal.
It is advised that the public remember to stay at least 20 metres away and call the non-profit organisations if concerns arise.
If you witness a seal displaying unusual or aggressive behaviour, report it to the relevant authorities:
- Cape of Good Hope SPCA: 021 700 4158/9
- City of Cape Town: 021 480 7700
- CapeNature: 083 236 2924 (West Coast and Overberg)
- Table Mountain National Park: 021 783 0234
Cape {town} Etc discount: Looking for things to do in the city, at half the price? Get exclusive offers here.
Also read:
Public urged to steer clear of seals following confirmed rabies case
