The Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs says nearly 200 seals have died of malnutrition in several areas across the West Coast. Ministerial spokesperson, James-Brent Styan, says the deaths are not linked to the Avian Influenza outbreak.
More than 16 000 wild dead birds have been reported since the start of the outbreak.
Styan says the majority of the dead seals were found between Laaiplek and Dwarskersbos in the Bergrivier Municipality region.
“We are urging the public not to feed any seals despite the concerns about malnutrition. The animals remain wild creatures and must not be made dependent on human interaction for survival. With regards to the avian influenza crisis – it’s not yet over. The situation continues to be managed on an ongoing basis but the numbers of dying birds do continue to decline which is a welcome sign.”
