Guess who’s back on dry land – and no, it’s not Gordie, but we’re pretty sure they could be cousins!
An elephant seal tagged last December in Bakoven has hauled out at Onrus Beach for the past two days. “Bakkies” is enjoying a well-earned rest, according to marine conservationist Martine Viljoen.
"We were thrilled to confirm its identity by the blue DFFE tag 17612 on its back flipper, from a collaborative response effort by @sapri_dsti, DFFE and the @aquariumfoundation Marine Wildlife team," Viljoen said.
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While it’s always a delight to spot these ocean wanderers, it’s also a reminder that elephant seals need space and protection when they come ashore. Who can forget when Gordi became a global sensation with his wild antics in Gordon's Bay earlier in May?
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Let’s all give these incredible marine mammals the quiet beach days they deserve.
What to do if you spot a seal on the beach
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Keep your distance: Stay at least 20–30 m away and keep pets on a leash.
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Call for help if needed: If the seal looks injured or harassed, contact the local stranding network or your nearest municipality’s environmental team:
- Cape SPCA: +27 21 700 4140 | Emergency After Hours: 083 326 1604 | info@capespca.co.za
- SANCOBB Cape Town: +27 (0)21 557 6155 | Emergency After Hours: Tel: +27 (0) 78 638 3731 | reception@sanccob.co.za
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Don’t feed, touch, or disturb the seal: They’re often resting after long ocean journeys.
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Give them space to move: Never block their path back to the sea.
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Spread the word: Please alert others nearby so they know to give the animal space as well.
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