What a remarkable week! From a cheeky seal pup’s journey home to inspiring 154 young environmentalists, hosting the Turtle Roadshow, and responding to both seal and dolphin emergencies—we’ve been busy on all fronts. Here’s everything that happened between 16-22 February.
Tuesday, 17 February 🦭
Pup No. 35’s Journey Home
Remember our ‘laatlammetjie’ seal pup from last week? Well, Pup No. 35 has had quite the adventure! After receiving care at Hout Bay Animal Hospital (HAH), this little character proved he was more than ready to return home.
The pup was strong and adventurous—so adventurous, in fact, that he explored every corner of his holding area at HAH, including hopping into the kitchen! (Someone was clearly feeling right at home.) On Tuesday, he was transported by the Romonza crew and successfully returned to Seal Island, where he belongs. Welcome home, No. 35!
Wednesday, 18 February 🐢
Two Oceans Turtle Roadshow Success!
We had the privilege of attending the annual Two Oceans Turtle Roadshow at Delfinos at The Point. It’s always wonderful meeting the dedicated team that works tirelessly to educate the public about turtles and how to respond to stranded hatchlings.
Our beloved mascot Sammy the Turtle made a brief appearance to the delight of attendees. However, on a scorching hot day, wearing that suit is like being in a sauna! Our volunteer inside deserves major kudos for enduring the heat to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
Thursday, 19 February 🌊
Inspiring the Next Generation: 154 Young Ocean Warriors
Thursday brought one of our favorite activities—school outreach! We spoke to 154 Grade 6 learners from Hartenbos Primary School on Kleinbrak Beach, just before they set off on a beach clean-up mission.
We regard our outreaches to schools as vitally important in our mission to teach the future generation about our precious ocean resources. These young people are the future stewards of our coast, and seeing their enthusiasm and commitment gives us hope for the years ahead.
Saturday, 21 February 🏥
Injured Seal Pup Rescue
Sometimes being in the right place at the right time makes all the difference. Michael happened to be on Hartenbos Beach when he discovered an injured seal pup.
The pup has a bad laceration on its back and is now receiving treatment at HAH. We’re hopeful for a full recovery and will keep you updated on this little one’s progress.
Sunday, 22 February 🐬
Dolphin Stranding at Great Brak
Sunday brought a sobering reminder of the challenges our marine life faces. A large male dolphin was found beached at Great Brak.
The dolphin had large bite injuries to the underbelly near the flukes. It’s not yet known whether these injuries caused the death or were inflicted postmortem—a question that further analysis may help answer.
Val responded to the scene and took basic measurements, detailed photographs, and collected skin samples for Dr Hofmeyr. These samples will contribute to ongoing research and help us better understand the circumstances surrounding the dolphin’s death.
📸 See More Photos & DetailsPlease visit our Facebook page for further information and photos of all the events during the week. We share additional images, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments that bring these stories to life!
Thank you for following our journey! 🌊
From rescue missions to educational outreach, every week reinforces why this work is so essential. Whether it’s a cheeky pup exploring a kitchen or 154 young minds learning about ocean conservation, these moments remind us that we’re building something bigger than ourselves – a future where humans and marine life thrive together.