Captain Hook's journey from rescue to stage debut at uShaka Sea World
This charming Cape fur seal is not just a survivor; he’s a star in the making.
Image: Saambr
Captain Hook, a Cape fur seal that was once at risk due to fishhooks, has been successfully rescued and rehabilitated.
He has now made his public debut at uShaka Sea World, marking a significant milestone in his recovery journey.
Named fittingly for his unfortunate encounters with fishing gear, Captain Hook’s story reflects the dedication of wildlife rescuers and the indomitable spirit of nature.
In July, Amanzimtoti Beach Superintendent Jace Govender, along with trained members of the KZN Stranding Network, rescued him.
The KZN Stranding Network and marine animal experts had monitored him after settling in the surf at eManzimtoti, Durban South. He had evaded capture until his eventual rescue.
Captain Hook was admitted into the care of the Saambr Animal Care team. At the time, he was two-and-a-half years old and weighed 17kg.
It was believed he followed the Sardine Run up the coast, and when they were no longer visible, he saw sardines connected to the end of the fishermen's lines at eManzimtoti. Despite being hooked several times, he continued to steal the fishermen's bait until he required medical attention.
While most hooks were removed successfully, one remained.
Making waves and winning hearts, Captain Hook takes his first bow on stage.
Image: Saambr
Saambr spokesperson Ann Kunz said: “A specialised veterinary assessment later revealed that this hook, originally lodged in his oesophagus, had migrated to a safer position in a shoulder muscle. It was decided that operating was not in Captain's best interest.”
She said Captain Hook recovered during his rehabilitation, thanks to the dedicated care and attention of his caregivers.
The enthusiasm that once landed him in trouble, he would repeatedly steal bait from fishermen, also fuelled his significant love of food, enabling him to gain weight at a steady, healthy rate.
“When authorities determined that he could not be released back into the wild, we were honoured to offer him a permanent home at uShaka Sea World. After being moved from the rehabilitation tunnel, he was gradually introduced to the resident seals and quickly won hearts with his curious, playful, and irresistibly cute personality,” Kunz said.
“We are delighted to share that, after just two months of settling in and ‘finding his flippers’, Captain Hook made his first surprise stage appearance at the beginning of December in front of a large, enthusiastic audience.”
Kunz added that soon, Captain Hook, or just “Captain”, will shine as one of the stars on stage.
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Cape Argus