Many marine mammals spend their life at sea like dolphins and whales, others often come to land like seals and penguins. When they do come to land, with all the best of intentions, we want to help. Often, we don’t know what to do. Here are a few hints to help along the way, it is just like basic first aid for humans.
1) Seals haul out regularly and rest. This is evident if you have been to any seal colonies. Please do not approach these animals, as they are large and very powerful, they can bite and hurt you.
2) Whales and dolphins do not naturally come to land unless they are sick or injured. There are other things that cause they to strand but most frequently the cause is as above. Call for help (local cape nature or rehabilitation centre). Keep the animal moist with wet towels, be careful not to pour water in their blow holes as this can cause them to drown. Be aware that if the animals is still in the water, its distress signals can attract sharks.
3) Penguins and other sea birds are also known for resting on land. Unless there is something obviously wrong with the bird, they can be left to rest. With the present endangered status of the penguins, the rule of thumb is to take them for medical assistance. Again, contact your local cape nature or rehabilitation centre. If you do not know how to handle these animals, leave it for the professionals. They can give a nasty bite.
The origins of marine mammals
The origins of marine mammals Although all marine mammals evolved from land mammals, it may surprise some that each group of marine mammals has its own unique ancestry. There are three groups of marine mammals: the cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises), the pinnipeds (fur seals, sea lions, walruses and seals) and the sirenians (dugongs and […] Continue Reading...
ORCA TIMES- Quarterly Report- April to June 2018
Over the last three months, ORCA has continued to grow and improve with the enthusiasm and commitment of our team. Since our last newsletter, our team has welcomed a new member, Cameron Reeder. His young, vibey energy is a welcome addition to the team. We have also since seen the launch of our humpback dolphin project […] Continue Reading...
New Chapter- Orca Foundation quarterly report 2018
A NEW CHAPTER The start of 2018 brought a brand new team to the ORCA Foundation Volunteer Program. With 3 new staff members (two experienced marine biologists and a conservationist) the program now hosts a wide range of marine related research, conservation and education activities. January was just crazy! The new team had to move […] Continue Reading...
ORCA Foundation -Volunteer Programme 2019
ORCA FOUNDATION – VOLUNTEER PROGRAMME – 2019 PROGRAMME OVERVIEW The ORCA Foundation, a conservation node of Ocean Blue Adventures, officially opened its doors in 2001 and was designed to create awareness about marine conservation issues facing Plettenberg Bay. Today, the foundation combines research, conservation and education into its comprehensive volunteer programme. The foundation strongly depends […] Continue Reading...
Southern right whale pigmentation patterns
Southern right whale pigmentation patterns Southern right whales are usually mostly black in colour and were often referred to as “black whales” by open-boat whalers. Most individuals also have a white blaze on their bellies, which can vary in size from a small spot to a large irregularly-shaped marking that may extend up the side […] Continue Reading...
6 Responses to Animals in Distress
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