The rescue team from Ocean Conservation Namibia (OCN) is always on the lookout for seals in distress, and on one particular day, they spotted a seal pup with a red entanglement around its neck.
It was a heartbreaking sight.
Together, the team made it their mission to not only help this pup – but also to save other seals facing similar dangers.
These seals, often entangled in various forms of ocean debris, are a stark reminder of the growing problem of marine pollution.
Every rescue mission proves the grim reality of ocean pollution.
For every Cape fur seal that OCN manages to save, an estimated 1,600 other animals succumb to the harmful effects of pollution.
The numbers are staggering and highlight the urgent need for more effective conservation efforts.
The team’s dedication to rescuing these animals is a ray of hope amidst this dire situation.
All of the members played a crucial role in the successful rescue of the seals.
Using binoculars, they were able to spot the distressed seals from a distance.
This early detection was vital, allowing the team to prepare and execute the rescue with precision.
They identified four seals entangled in various materials, including ropes, clothing, and fishing lines.
Each entanglement posed its own set of challenges, and the team had to adapt quickly to each situation.
The diversity of the materials shows just how much debris ends up in the ocean, entangling and endangering marine life.
The rescuers worked together to scoop the entangled seals into nets, a task that required both speed and coordination.
Once secured, the team carefully freed the seals from the materials that bound them.
It was a delicate process, as any wrong move could cause further injury to the already distressed animals.
During one rescue, a seal pup was found with a stick entangled around it, making the rescue even more complicated.
The team had to be extra careful to avoid causing further harm.
Despite the additional challenge, they managed to free the pup, ensuring it was safe and uninjured.
This rescue showcased the team’s ability to handle even the most complex entanglements with care and precision.
Once freed, the baby seal had a unique reaction that touched the hearts of the rescuers.
Instead of immediately fleeing, the pup remained in one of the rescuer’s laps, displaying an unusual calmness.
It was as if the seal understood the care and effort that had gone into its rescue.
This moment of calm interaction was rare and special, showing the bond that can form between humans and animals in distress.
In the video description, they explained:
“Each rescue is different and the rescue team needs to be on high alert at all times to avoid injuries to themselves and the animal. Entangled seals are already compromised and feel threatened, and we can’t blame them: we do hunt them down, pin them to the ground, and poke around in often painful and infected wounds.”
They continue:
“Some seals have a completely different reaction to the rescue, and in rare occasions like on this day, they seem calm and stay around, as if they wanted to hang out for a while. Seals aren’t pets and we never encourage unnecessary interaction, but we still enjoy human moments like this one very much.”
Watch the video below to see the incredible rescue for yourself!
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