TABLE VIEW
Woensdag, 8 April 2026 | Tel: 021 910 6500 | e-pos: nuus@tygerburger.co.za | Website: www.tygerburger.co.za
PUBLIC WARNED TO BE CAUTIOUS AND AWARE
PAWS IN PERIL
Sea rescue responds to seal rabies KAILIN DANIELS
C
KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
ape fur seal populations along Cape Town’s coastline are under increased scrutiny as authorities respond to a growing number of rabies cases, prompting urgent calls for public awareness and caution. While encounters with seals have historically been peaceful, recent behavioural changes in some colonies have raised alarm. According to Gregg Oelofse from the City’s Coastal Management department, more than 90 confirmed rabies cases have been recorded in local waters over the past two years — with the true number likely far higher. “We know with certainty that the disease is now endemic in the Cape Fur Seal population,” he said, describing a pattern of a “slow burn with flares”. A recent flare-up has been observed in the Hout Bay area.
A rescued furry friend enjoying some cuddle time on Cheryl-Lyn Potgieter’s shoulders. Cheryl-Lyn’s Rescue Organisation, which cares for hundreds of rescued animals across Melkbosstrand, Table View, Milnerton and surrounding areas, faces an uncertain future as the farm it occupies is being sold. Read more about CherylLyn’s urgent efforts to save the sanctuary on page 9.
MAYOR UNVEILS “CITY OF HOPE” BUDGET PAGE 2
RAPID RESPONSE TO PROTECT PUBLIC AND WILDLIFE Authorities have prioritised swift, humane intervention when suspected rabid seals are reported. Following a recent incident involving kayakers in Hout Bay, officials tracked and euthanised
EASTER BEACH CLEANUP BRINGS VOLUNTEERS TOGETHER PAGE 4
ENDEMIC OUTBREAK HAS ‘SLOW BURN WITH FLARES’ the affected animal, with a second rabid seal later identified at Duiker Island. The response forms part of a broader rabies management plan, including routine surveillance of seal colonies, clear identification protocols for symptomatic animals, and strict guidelines for euthanasia and testing. High-risk groups - including veterinarians, wildlife workers and first responders - are vaccinated in advance, while beach safety teams are instructed to raise warnings or close access if aggressive seal behaviour is reported. NSRI ADAPTS OPERATIONS The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has adapted its operations to address the evolving risk while ensuring ocean safety. Rescue crews are now equipped with specialised seal bite treatment kits containing flushing solutions, wound care supplies and clear treatment protocols. Volunteers are also advised to avoid inwater training in high-density seal areas and to remain alert for unusual behaviour. TO PAGE 4
CITY RAMPS UP INTERVENTIONS TO RESTORE MILNERTON LAGOON PAGE 5