JEFFREYS BAY – A Cape fur seal that came ashore at The Point, Jeffreys Bay in the Eastern Cape on 16 November has tested positive for rabies.
As previously reported, the seal, displaying aggressive behaviour, was captured and euthanised after allegedly attempting to bite surfers at a popular surf spot, The Point.
According to a statement released by Bayworld, a museum based in Gqeberha, an initial response by the NSRI cleared the area.
The statement, released four days after the seal washed ashore, said that experts judged the behaviour of the seal when ashore to be characteristic of animals infected with rabies.
“Since the animal was a danger to the public, was clearly suffering and had no hope of recovery, permission was given for euthanasia,” the statement said.
A subsequent joint operation by the Kouga Municipality, the SPCA, SAPS, Bayworld Stranding Response and a veterinarian resulted in the seal being sedated and then euthanised.
“Confirmation that the animal had rabies confirms that this was the correct course of action,” the statement said.
“No persons were injured by the seal, and all protocols were followed during the operation.”
The statement said that the public is reminded to keep their distance from seals, both in the sea and on land.
Any sightings ashore, or of seals behaving strangely, or any carcasses of seals, should be reported to the Bayworld stranding hotline 071 724 2122 as soon as possible.
“Response to any seals ashore should only be by experts. The stranding response team is trained, experienced and vaccinated and has the appropriate equipment and permits to deal with these situations,” the statement said.
“All seals are protected by law and it is an offence to harm or disturb them.”
