Dear SMART Members and Friends,
This week brought us two very different but equally memorable seal encounters!
“Kosie” the Sub-Antarctic Fur Seal Goes to Rehab
On Tuesday, our rescued Sub-Antarctic fur seal “Kosie” began his journey to recovery. After being rescued by Hanli and Nikki at Gourits, Carly and Val transported him to Tsitsikamma Toll Gate where Dr. Greg Hofmeyr took over. The feisty Kosie was then transferred to Bayworld for rehabilitation, and we’re delighted to report that he absolutely reveled in his first dip in a small pool after arrival!
Pizza Oven Seal Surprise!
Yesterday morning (Saturday, August 17th) at 7:25 AM, we received an unusual call about a Cape Fur Seal yearling who had made himself at home at Quay 4 restaurant near the yacht club. The young seal had settled next to the pizza oven wood pile, much to the surprise of staff and early morning coffee customers!
Tersia, Mario, Ursula, Mike, and Elzan all responded to assess this extraordinary situation. After consulting with Dr. Hofmeyr, the team successfully captured the seal and transported him to Hartenbos Animal Hospital for assessment. Once we receive the all-clear from Dr. Frans, we’ll release him back into the ocean.
This incident perfectly illustrates how SMART responds to seals in the most unexpected places. Perhaps this adventurous youngster was simply hoping for an anchovy pizza! 😉
Support S.M.A.R.T. through the Woolworths App
Woolworths no longer issues physical cards or forms – everything is now done conveniently on your phone. Please follow these easy steps to support Stranded Marine Animals Rescue Team:
- Download the Woolworths App
- Register if you don’t have a card, or log in if you already do
- At the bottom of the screen, select “Loyalty”
- Then choose “Join myDifference” (this is the new name for the Causes programme)
- Tap “Get Started” and follow the prompts (you’ll enter your ID, personal details, accept the T&Cs, and finish setup)
- Then select “Explore Loyalty Hub” – you should now see your card number and barcode (this is what you scan at Woolworths)
- Go to Causes, then select “Choose my own”
- Under Environment, scroll until you find Stranded Marine Animals Rescue Team, then tap Add
Your support makes a difference every time you shop at Woolies! Thank you for helping us save our precious marine wildlife.
Until next week, The SMART Team
IMPORTANT REMINDER: Never approach, touch, or attempt to return stranded marine animals to the water. Always call SMART responders and keep a safe distance while waiting for trained personnel to arrive.