a Visitor from the South.

Last night at around 18:00, Xolani Lawu, Senior Bird Rehabilitator at the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary (APSS), received a call from concerned Sandbaai resident and retired CapeNature Area Manager, Tierck Hoekstra.

Tierck had spotted a dishevelled Southern Fulmar (Silwerstormvoël) a rare ocean wanderer from the icy southern seas. Xolani immediately jumped into action, meeting Tierck halfway as the rescue response began.

Xolani and Tierck

The beautiful bird survived the night and was ready for a hearty breakfast this morning, although Xolani had a few close encounters with the Fulmar’s impressive “super shark beak”!

Upon close inspection by the APSS team, no serious injuries or illnesses were detected. We believe the bird may have been affected by the heavy winds and stormy conditions experienced along our coastline two weeks ago. Hopefully, with some rest and care, this magnificent seabird will soon be ready for release back into the wild.

Southern Fulmars breed around Antarctica and travel vast distances across the Southern Ocean. Along the Western Cape coastline, sightings are rare and always special. With their silver-grey feathers, striking pink-and-blue tubenose bill and incredible endurance, they are true masters of the open ocean.

A huge thank you to Tierck for acting so quickly and contacting APSS immediately.

We urge Overberg residents to save our seabird and marine wildlife rescue line: 072 598 7117.

And a special thank you to CFAO Mobility Toyota Cape Town City for our rescue and retrieve Hilux, helping us respond when marine wildlife needs us most.