Cape Town - As outdoor activities are expected to increase during the upcoming summer months, the Cape Town municipality has asked the public to keep a safe and respectful distance from all marine and coastal wildlife.
“We are blessed in Cape Town to have a coastline that is still rich in biodiversity and home to many wild marine and coastal animals including seals, otters, penguins and many more.
“As these animals are common on our beaches and shoreline, we at times forget that they are in fact wild animals. In the interest of the safety of beach users, as well as the animals, I want to kindly request residents and visitors to keep a safe and respectful distance from these animals,” said Spatial Planning and Environment mayco member, Eddie Andrews.
The public has been reminded to adhere to the following:
- Do not approach or try to get close to any marine and coastal wildlife. Their natural response will be to defend themselves and this may result in a bite.
- Always keep a respectful distance between yourself and any wildlife to reduce stress on the wildlife. Move away if approached by wildlife.
- Never try and touch, or pose with, any marine and coastal wildlife. This places both you and the wildlife at risk of potential harm.
- Keep dogs under control by keeping them on a leash and well away from all wildlife at all times. Remove pets immediately from any place where coastal wildlife are present.
- Never try and feed any marine and coastal wildlife.
“Do not support the illegal feeding of wildlife for show, such as the seals at the fishing harbours. This is an illegal activity and must not be supported financially,” the City saud.
In case of any injured, hurt, or coastal wildlife in distress, contact the City on 021 480 7700 from a cellphone, or 107 from a landline. The appropriate response will be initiated to assist the animal. Members of the public are urged not to act on their own and without authority.
“All are reminded that the City’s Coastal Bylaw makes provision for the City to act against those who intentionally or negligently interfere with any marine and coastal wildlife.”
Cape Times