What not to do when you spot a struggling sea creature on the beach
Experts suggest calling for professional help rather than trying to return marine life to the sea.
Do not put stranded marine animals back into the ocean, warns Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife regional marine ecologist Santosh Bachoo.
The reminder comes after two turtles and a dolphin were rescued on KZN North Coast beaches in the last month and taken to uShaka Sea World for rehabilitation.
In December, an adult green turtle – believed to be about 30 years old – washed up on Christmas Bay in Sheffield Beach. On Christmas Eve, a Risso’s dolphin calf was stranded at Willard beach in Ballito.
Last week, an adult loggerhead turtle was found south of Umdloti main beach. All three times concerned beachgoers attempted to return the creatures to the sea but without success.
Bachoo said turtles and dolphins regularly get stranded, but the public must not attempt to return the sea creatures to the water. Bachoo told the Courier that each stranding is unique, and that bystanders must notify the relevant authorities, or lifeguards, immediately.
“The speed and correct response to a stranding is the most crucial factor to determine a successful rescue,” he said.
“Do not attempt to move them before the rescue team arrives. They may be sick or injured, and unable to swim or dive.”
Turtles sometimes get found on their backs, or rescuers place them upside down.
“Never place a turtle on its back as this can cause pressure on its lungs from the internal organs. Although turtles are not aggressive creatures, they do have a nasty bite.”
Once rescued, stranded marine animals are taken to uShaka Sea World where a team of experienced vets examine the animals and give them the medical attention they require. If they survive, they are released back into the ocean after a full return to health.
The 24-hour KZN Stranding Network number is 031 328 8222 (office hours) or 031 328 8060 (after hours). This is for all marine animals, including dolphins, whales, seals, turtles, penguins and seabirds.
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