A playful pod of dolphins in the beautiful waters of Mossel Bay!🐬 ♥️
If you spot any stranded marine animals, please report them to SMART at 072 227 4715.📞
Let's keep our coastal wildlife safe! 🌍
#StrandedMarineAnimalRescueTeam #SPCAMosselBay #MosselBay #MosselBayTourism #IconicMosselBay #ProtectOurOceans #Bayworld #MarineLife #WildlifeEducation #CoastalEcosystem #NatureLovers #Dolphin #Whale
We recently came across a video posted on social media showing a dog approaching a Cape fur seal while the owner filmed it. This is not only irresponsible - it’s dangerous. If that seal had rabies, the consequences could have been serious. A bite or scratch from an infected seal could have transmitted the virus to the dog, which could then pass it to humans. Rabies is deadly, and there’s no cure once symptoms appear.
Beyond that, the dog could have been seriously injured. Seals are wild animals and can become aggressive if they feel threatened.
It’s critical that pet owners don’t allow dogs to approach wildlife. Always keep dogs on a leash and away from wild animals. Don’t risk your pet’s life, your own, or the health of others. Respect wildlife and keep everyone safe. 🦭
If you spot any stranded marine animals, please report them to SMART at 072 227 4715.📞
Let's keep our coastal wildlife safe! 🌍
#StrandedMarineAnimalRescueTeam #SPCAMosselBay #MosselBay #MosselBayTourism #IconicMosselBay #ProtectOurOceans #Bayworld #MarineLife #WildlifeEducation #CoastalEcosystem #NatureLovers #Rabies #CapeFurSeal
🚨 **Important Update from SMART** 🚨
On Wednesday, 25 September 2024, SMART was notified of a seal resting among the rocks at The Point. Our volunteers monitored her closely throughout the day and observed worrying neurological symptoms.
With the invaluable help of the Mossel Bay SPCA and Law Enforcement, we were able to safely capture the seal and transport her to Dr. de Graaff at the Hartenbos Animal Hospital for evaluation. Sadly, due to her condition, she had to be euthanized, and further tests were conducted to understand the cause.
**Update**: It has now been confirmed that the seal was pregnant, and both the mother and fetus tested positive for rabies. This is a groundbreaking and unprecedented discovery, marking the first recorded case of rabies in a seal and her unborn pup.
As you can see from the video, it is not always possible to observe the classic rabies symptoms in seals. However, thanks to the training and experience of our volunteers, it was deemed necessary to have the seal evaluated by experts.
We are extremely grateful to the Mossel Bay SPCA, Law Enforcement, and all our dedicated volunteers for their support and assistance throughout this challenging process. Your commitment means the world to us.
Please stay informed, stay safe, and we will continue to share any further updates. 🦭
If you spot any stranded marine animals, please report them to SMART at 072 227 4715.📞
Let's keep our coastal wildlife safe! 🌍
#StrandedMarineAnimalRescueTeam
#hartenbosanimalhospital
#spcamosselbay
#MosselBayMunicipality
#MosselBay #MosselBayTourism #IconicMosselBay #ProtectOurOceans #Bayworld
#MarineLife #WildlifeEducation #CoastalEcosystem #Rabies
#CapeFurSeal
Ons het gister, 17 September 2024, Laerskool Hartenbos besoek as deel van ons voortgesette missie om kinders bewus te maak van die belangrikheid van mariene bewaring. Ongeveer twee jaar gelede het die Stranded Marine Animal Rescue Team (S.M.A.R.T) begin om skole te besoek en leerders van Graad RR tot Graad 7 op te voed oor ons werk en die bewaring van die oseaan. Ons beplan om binnekort ook hoërskole te betrek.
Met die hulp van ons geliefde mascot, Sammy, bied ons 'n 30-minuut lange PowerPoint-aanbieding aan vol opwindende foto's. Danksy ruim donasies kon ons 'n projektor, skerm, en mikrofoon aanskaf, wat ons aanbiedings baie verbeter het.
Ons doel is om elke skool in die groter Mosselbaai en George-area te bereik en bewustheid oor mariene lewe en bewaringspogings te versprei.
'n Groot dankie aan al ons borge, insluitend Pet & Pool, Garden Route Casino Community Trust, en ons privaat donateurs. Julle ondersteuning maak die verskil!
Baie dankie vir Mnr Nel en grade 1 - 3 in Hartenbos Laerskool om S.M.A.R.T die geleentheid te gee om die kinders bietjie te leer oor mariene diere!
Laerskool Hartenbos
As jy enige gestrande mariene diere opmerk, kontak asseblief SMART by 072 227 4715. 📞
Deel asseblief hierdie plasing en ons nuwe Facebook-bladsy met jou vriende en familie. ♥️
#SMART #laerskoolhartenbos #MarineConservation #EducationMatters #MosselBay #George #OceanAwareness #SammyTheMascot #ThankYou #CommunitySupport #StrandedMarineAnimalRescueTeam #MosselBayTourism #IconicMosselBay #ProtectOurOceans #Bayworld #MarineMammals #MarineLife
Today, we spotted two humpback whales just off the coast of Mossel Bay! These incredible whales are known for their playful behavior, often breaching and slapping their fins on the water.
Keep an eye out when you're near the coast – you might just spot these amazing creatures!
If you spot any stranded marine animals, please report them to SMART at 072 227 4715.📞
Let's keep our coastal wildlife safe! 🌍
#StrandedMarineAnimalRescueTeam #MosselBay #MosselBayTourism #IconicMosselBay #ProtectOurOceans #Bayworld #MarineLife #WildlifeEducation #CoastalEcosystem #NatureLovers #HumpbackWhale #WhaleWatching
Today, our team responded promptly to reports of a potentially rabid seal. While the seal showed no obvious signs of the disease, it was quite underweight for a yearling. Thanks to the combined efforts of the George SPCA, the Fire Department, and SMART, the seal was safely relocated back into the ocean.
Remember, it's crucial to report any stranded or distressed marine animals to SMART to ensure they receive the help they need.
If you spot any stranded marine animals, please report them to SMART at 072 227 4715.📞
Let's keep our coastal wildlife safe! 🌍
#strandedmarineanimalrescueteam #HeroldsBay #georgefire #georgespca #ProtectOurOceans #Bayworld #marinemammals #marinelife #capefurseal #sealrescue
Tuesday afternoon, SMART was alerted to a seal with an entanglement around its neck at The Point in Mossel Bay. SMART volunteers, together with Dr. Frans De Graaff, promptly responded and successfully captured the seal. The seal was transported to Dr. De Graaff's practice, where the entanglement was removed, and it received the necessary care and treatment. Earlier today, the seal was successfully released back into the ocean. 🦭
This is why we do what we do! A big thank you to the entire team for their outstanding efforts, and to the public for alerting us! ♥️
If you spot any stranded marine animals, please report them to SMART at 072 227 4715.📞
Let's keep our coastal wildlife safe! 🌍
#strandedmarineanimalrescueteam #hartenbosdierehospitaal #mosselbay #mosselbaytourism #iconicmosselbay #ProtectOurOceans #Bayworld #marinemammals #marinelife #MosselBay #MarineLife #SMARTRescue #capefurseals
Fishing line tangled around a seagull’s leg.
Today we witnessed a seagull struggling to walk, clearly in pain—a direct result of discarded fishing gear left behind on our beaches. This is not just a minor inconvenience for wildlife; it’s a serious threat to their survival.
When left in the environment, fishing lines can cause severe injuries, leading to pain, infection, and even death for animals like this seagull. We all have a responsibility to prevent this kind of suffering. Let’s make it a priority to properly dispose of fishing gear, participate in beach cleanups, and raise awareness about the dangers of marine debris. Together, we can protect our coastal wildlife and ensure they thrive in a safe environment.
If you spot any stranded marine animals, please report them to SMART at 072 227 4715.📞
Let's keep our coastal wildlife safe!
#strandedmarineanimalrescueteam #mosselbay #mosselbaytourism #iconicmosselbay #ProtectOurOceans #Bayworld #marinemammals #marinelife #MosselBay #MarineLife #SMARTRescue
With strong winds expected over the next few days, our marine animals might face some challenges. Please be mindful of seals, seabirds, and other wildlife that may be more vulnerable during this time.🐬
If you spot any stranded marine animals, please report them to SMART at 072 227 4715.📞
Let's keep our coastal wildlife safe!🦭
#strandedmarineanimalrescueteam #mosselbay #mosselbaytourism #iconicmosselbay #ProtectOurOceans #Bayworld #marinemammals #marinelife #MosselBay #MarineLife #SMARTRescue #StaySafe
🚨WARNING: RABIES ALERT IN HARTENBOS🚨
We regret to inform the public that a Cape fur seal found at the Hartenbos River mouth on 12 August has tested positive for rabies. The seal, which was reported to us by a concerned citizen, displayed neurological symptoms and unfortunately passed away.
🦭 Important Safety Information:
- Stay Away from Seals: Whether they appear ill, aggressive, or even friendly, please maintain a safe distance from any seals you encounter on the beach.
- Keep Dogs on Leashes: Even vaccinated dogs are at risk of severe bite wounds if they come into contact with a rabid seal. Non-vaccinated dogs are at risk of contracting rabies.
- Report Sightings Immediately: If you see a seal on the beach or witness unusual behavior, please contact us or one of the authorities listed below immediately.
Rabies is a deadly virus that can spread through bites, scratches, or even licks from infected animals. It’s crucial to take these warnings seriously and avoid all contact with seals. Remember, an infected animal can display a variety of symptoms, including aggression, confusion, excess salivation, and more.
📞 Contact Information:
- SMART: 072 227 4715
- Dr. Greg Hofmeyr: 071 724 2122
- Municipality: 044 606 5000 (24/7)
- Garden Route SPCA: 044 693 0824
Please share this post to help us spread the word and keep our community safe.
Stay vigilant and take care!
#strandedmarineanimalrescueteam #mosselbay #mosselbaytourism #iconicmosselbay #ProtectOurOceans #Bayworld #marinemammals #marinelife
SMART - EK Primary School
About two years ago, the Stranded Marine Animal Rescue Team (SMART) began visiting schools to educate children about our work and the importance of marine conservation. We started with primary schools, focusing on learners from Grade RR to Grade 7, and we plan to include high schools in the near future.
With the help of our mascot, Sammy, we deliver a 30-minute PowerPoint presentation filled with engaging photos. Thanks to the generous donations we’ve received, we were able to acquire a projector, screen, and microphone, which have significantly enhanced our presentations.
Our goal is to reach every school in the greater Mossel Bay and George area, spreading awareness about marine life and conservation efforts. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our sponsors, including Pet & Pool, Garden Route Casino Community Trust, and our private donors. Your support makes all the difference!
Last Friday morning, we had the pleasure of visiting EK Primary School in Mossel Bay with Sammy, and it was an absolute blast! The kids were enthusiastic, and we had so much fun sharing our passion for the ocean with them.
If you spot any stranded marine animals, please report them to SMART at 072 227 4715. 📞
Please share this post and our new page with your friends and family. ♥️
#SMART #MarineConservation #EducationMatters #MosselBay #George #OceanAwareness #SammyTheMascot #ThankYou #CommunitySupport #StrandedMarineAnimalRescueTeam #MosselBayTourism #IconicMosselBay #ProtectOurOceans #Bayworld #MarineMammals #MarineLife
Discover the Dolphins of the Garden Route! 🐬
If you're exploring the beautiful Garden Route, keep an eye out for these amazing dolphins:
* Bottlenose Dolphin - The friendliest of the bunch, often seen close to shore and playing in the waves.
* Indo-Pacific Bottlenose Dolphin - A warm-water lover, frequently spotted in our region's coastal waters. It's worth noting that the Indo-Pacific Bottlenose Dolphin is considered a subspecies of the Bottlenose Dolphin.
* Common Dolphin - Known for their energetic leaps and large pods, these dolphins are more typically found offshore, in deeper waters rather than close to the shore.
* Humpback Dolphin - These shy beauties are often found in shallow bays and estuaries along the coast.
Next time you’re out on the water or strolling along the shore, keep your eyes peeled for these incredible marine creatures!
Report any stranded marine animals to SMART at 072 227 4715.
Please share this post and our new page with your friends and family. ♥️
#GardenRoute #DolphinWatching #MarineLife #BottlenoseDolphins #HumpbackDolphins #CommonDolphins #OceanLovers #Wildlife #NatureLovers
When you spot a Cape fur seal resting on the rocks or beach, it's important to take the following steps:
1. Keep a Safe Distance: Stay at least 20 meters away from the seal. Cape fur seals are wild animals, and getting too close can cause them stress or provoke defensive behavior.
2. Observe Quietly: Avoid making loud noises or sudden movements. Seals are sensitive to disturbances, and your presence should be as non-intrusive as possible.
3. Do Not Touch or Feed: Never attempt to touch or feed the seal. Human contact can transmit diseases to the animal, and feeding can disrupt their natural behavior.
4. Respect Their Space: If the seal appears to be asleep or resting, do not disturb it. Seals haul out on land to rest, and it's crucial to allow them this time.
5. Keep Dogs Away: If you have a dog with you, ensure it's on a leash and kept far from the seal. Dogs can startle or threaten seals, leading to potential injury for both animals.
6. Report Any Concerns: If the seal appears injured, sick, or in distress, contact SMART at 072 227 4715.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure the seal's safety and well-being while enjoying the natural environment.
Please share this post and our new page with your friends and family. ♥️🦭
#strandedmarineanimalrescueteam #mosselbay #mosselbaytourism #iconicmosselbay #ProtectOurOceans #capefurseal #seal #Bayworld #marinemammals #marinelife
It's amazing to see Snowflake, the white southern right whale calf, and her mother in Mossel Bay! These beautiful whales remind us of nature's wonders and the need to protect our marine life. 🐳 💙
Report any stranded marine animals to SMART at 072 227 4715.
#MosselBay #SouthernRightWhales #Snowflake #MarineLife #NatureWonders #OceanConservation #WhaleWatching #MarineRescue #SupportWildlife #ProtectOurOceans #StrandedMarineAnimalRescueTeam #iconicmosselbay #MosselBayMunicipality
Meet Ally the Elephant Seal! 🦭
Yesterday, a southern elephant seal was resting on our shores in Mossel Bay.
About Southern Elephant Seals:
Southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina) are the largest seal species in the world. Males can weigh up to 4,000 kilograms and measure up to 5 metres in length, while females can weigh up to 900 kilograms and reach lengths of 3 metres. These impressive creatures are known for their deep-diving abilities, often reaching depths of over 1,500 metres to hunt for squid and fish.
Habitat and Range: Elephant seals are typically found in sub-Antarctic and Antarctic waters, coming ashore on remote beaches and islands for breeding and moulting.
Behaviour: The species is named for the males' large proboscis, which resembles an elephant's trunk and is used to produce loud roaring noises during the breeding season.
Conservation: While not currently endangered, elephant seals face challenges from climate change and human activities, making conservation efforts essential for their continued survival.
How You Can Help:
Give Space: Maintain a respectful distance from marine animals and avoid making loud noises to ensure they remain undisturbed.
Stay Informed: Follow our page for updates on marine wildlife and learn more about how you can help protect ocean habitats.
Report Sightings: If you spot a marine animal in distress, contact SMART immediately to ensure timely and appropriate care.
Support Conservation Efforts: Participate in local beach clean-ups and support organisations that work to protect marine life and their habitats.
Reduce Plastic Use: Minimise single-use plastics to reduce pollution in the oceans, which can be harmful to marine animals.
We appreciate the support of our community in helping protect and monitor marine life. Together, we can ensure our beaches remain a safe haven for all ocean visitors.
#strandedmarineanimalrescueteam #southernelephantseals #mosselbay #mosselbaytourism #iconicmosselbay #ProtectOurOc
