Authorities urge public to keep distance from Columbo the elephant seal

AUTHORITIES have appealed the public to keep their distance from Columbo the elephant seal, who has been resting at Victoria Bay, after a suspected intoxicated person deliberately provoked the animal leading to a chase and aggressive behaviour, endangering volunteers and beachgoers.

The George Municipality and Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) said the immature male Southern elephant seal, currently around four to five years old and estimated to weigh approximately 500 kilograms, has been resting at Victoria Bay for a few weeks now. 

Columbo can be identified by a white spot on his left eye and a green tag on his hind flippers marked “0196”.

Columbo was first recorded on the South African coast in November 2023 near Pinnacle Point, Mossel Bay, where he remained ashore for a month to moult. Since then, he has returned to Victoria Bay on three occasions, with the most recent haul-out beginning on June 3, 2025 - his longest stay to date at 37 days and counting.

“During his current stay, Columbo has developed noticeable behaviours, such as ‘fighting’ with rocks, which has caused his teeth to wear down and led to the formation of an integumentary shield (a thickened patch of skin) on his chest,” the municipality and department said.

Columbo is monitored during the day by volunteers from the Stranding Marine Animal Rescue Team (SMART), while a nearby security guard keeps a casual watch at night. 

“However, the seal remains vulnerable to harmful human interactions, including people attempting to disturb or provoke him, sometimes for social media content. 

“One recent incident involved a possibly intoxicated individual deliberately provoking Columbo, leading to a chase and aggressive behaviour towards this individual and endangering volunteers and other beach users.”

Following several expert consultations, including marine biologists, veterinarians, and state officials, authorities said it was agreed that the best course of action is to leave Columbo undisturbed at Victoria Bay. 

“Attempts to move or chase him into the ocean were considered risky, both to humans and the animal, and could cause distress or injury. Euthanasia is not justified in this case, as Columbo is not ill or suffering.”

Members of the public have been advised to stay at least 20 metres away from the seal at all times, keep dogs on a leash and well away from the seal and to report any suspicious or harmful behaviour toward the animal to the relevant authorities or SMART volunteers on site.

“We appeal to all residents and visitors to treat Columbo with kindness and respect, and to help ensure that Victoria Bay remains a safe space for both people and wildlife.”

Cape Times