Annual Marine Strandings Report for KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: 2019

Prepared by:
Jennifer M. Olbers1

With contributions from:

Mondli Dlamini1, Santosh Bachoo1, Sue-Anne Schutt2, Tracy Shaw3, Quentin Power5, Carmen Power5, Dr Francois Lampen3, Hayley
Tennant3, Geremy Cliff6, Kelly de Klerk3, Malini Pather3, Greg Thomson6, Colette Bodenstaff3, Caroline Fox1, James Wood1, Catherine
Hanekom1, Wayne Harrison6, Bruce Mann3; Allan Williams1, Ant Molgora and MJ Mkhize, Craig Smith, Trafford Petterson, Anne Skelton1;
Gary Wolmarans11, Marlene Livingstone11, Jeremiah Jackson11, Dean Nieuwoudt4 and Grant Smith12.

Suggested Citation:
Olbers, JM. 2020. Marine Animal Strandings: 2019 Annual Report for KwaZulu-Natal. Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Internal Report,
Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. 36pp.

1Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife (including Honorary Officers); 2Centre for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW); 3South African Association for Marine Biological Research

(SAAMBR), 4EThekwini Metro Police, 5Specialised Rescue Unit, Ballito; 6KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board and Maritime Centre of Excellence (KZNSB); 7National Council of
Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA); 8Transnet Durban Harbour; 9SAPS; 10Mitchell Park Zoo; 11NSRI; 12Sharklife.
TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. SUMMARY…………………………………………………………………………………………….......…....…....... 3
2. KZN STRANDING NETWORK……………………………………………………………..………………......…… 3
3. MARINE ANIMAL STRANDINGS IN GENERAL……………………………………...…………………....… 4
4. RESULTS………………………………………………………………………………………………..………….……..... 6
5. OCCURRENCE AND DISTRIBUTION OF STRANDINGS IN KZN……………………..……....……..… 6
6. ANIMAL GROUPS AND SPECIES…………………………………………………………………..………...…… 8
7. FATE OF STRANDED ANIMALS……………………………………………………………………...………....… 9
8. MARINE DEBRIS…..………………………………………………………………………………………...........…… 11
9. REHABILITATED AND/OR RELEASED ANIMALS……………………………..……………………........… 11
10.INDIVIDUAL STRANDING INCIDENTS REPORTED DURING 2019…….…………………….......... 13
11. RECOMMENDATIONS…………………………………………………………………………………..............… 35
12. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS…………………………………….................................…………...........…… 35

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 SUMMARY

A total of 76 stranded animals representing 19 species were reported on the beaches of KZN during 2019. The reported
animals included 45 birds, 14 turtles, five (5) whales, nine (9) seals and three (3) dolphins, with no reports of whale sharks.
Of these, 26 animals were found alive, 22 died during or after rescue and 28 were discovered already dead. Sixteen (16)
animals were rescued and released, either after rehabilitation or directly after being disentangled on the beach. Ten (10)
animals had stranded due to interaction with marine debris (one (1) African penguin, six (6) coastal birds, one (1) sea bird
and two (2) turtles). The longest duration of an animal in rehabilitation, which was released in 2019 was 625 days. The
majority of strandings occurred in the areas between Umhlanga and Amanzimtoti and on the lower south coast.

KZN STRANDING NETWORK

The KZN Stranding Network was officially formed in the

1990’s but together with staff turn-over at various
institutions, it began to function on an ad hoc basis
becoming virtually non-functional in the early 2000’s. In
2008, it was resurrected, and various additional
organisations, institutions and stakeholders became
involved. The Network is managed by Ezemvelo KZN
Wildlife, the Provincial Conservation Management Agency,
who are responsible for reporting stranded animals to the
National Department of Environment, Forestry and
Fisheries. The Network is supported by the goodwill of staff
and management from various entities with no formal
funding being obtained to run or manage the Network.
This Network is indebted to many entities, stakeholders
and organisations who have supported the Network and
have continued to do so since 2008 (partner logos
indicated).

This report is aimed at summarising the data obtained

during 2019 for all marine stranded animals along the KZN
coastline including dolphins, whales, turtles, seals and
coastal birds. Data is collected and collated via Ezemvelo
datasheets, uShaka Sea World (SAAMBR) quarterly reports, CROW (Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife) annual reports,
KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board (KZNSB) reports, media reports and information from the public. The data are housed at
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife and can be accessed upon request.

The photographs in this report are from a variety of sources which are most-often unknown or unclear. Up to now, these
photos have been sent to Ezemvelo staff with the proviso that they can be used or distributed for the purposes of this report
and awareness material. Photos, where source/s are known, are acknowledged accordingly.

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 MARINE ANIMAL STRANDINGS

The South African coastline is subjected to unique oceanographic and environmental conditions which in turn supports a
highly diverse assemblage of protected species including whales, dolphins, sharks, turtles, birds and seals which are prone
to stranding. The KZN coastline is no different but it is unique in that during the winter months it is host to a large variety of
vagrant species from cooler waters. In addition, the KZN coast is host to the annual sardine run and humpback whale
migration which inevitably increases the possibility of strandings of not only the whales but also the associated predators
such as seals, dolphins, birds and sharks.

A stranding is generally defined as an animal is out of its element and being unable to return to its habitat on its own, or
without medical intervention. This definition has its exceptions and in KZN these are the following:

i) Seals which come ashore are regarded as strandings, even though in many cases they are resting. Intervention
and management are required due to their vulnerability to being disturbed and harassed by members of the
public while on the beach.
ii) Penguins, sea birds and turtles which although have a life history stage on land are generally not in good health
or condition and require intervention.
In other coastal provinces, where seals and penguins are in higher abundance, intervention is only undertaken when these
animals are injured or require rescue or rehabilitation.

Cause/s of Strandings
Strandings and the causes of these events have perplexed man for centuries with the first strandings being recorded in the
14th century. It is the general opinion that there is no single cause of strandings. Some areas in South Africa have experienced
more than one mass stranding event, including St. Helena Bay, Buffels Bay and Kommetjie. Almost half of the 22 recorded
mass stranding events since 1928 have occurred in these areas (Findlay pers. comm.).

There remains uncertainty as to why marine animals strand. Below are some of the accepted theories that may separately
or in combination with other parameters, contribute to a stranding event:

Natural factors (from DEFF National Response Plan for Cetacean Strandings)
Social cohesive nature of odontocetes - Toothed whales form highly social groups, often in numbers exceeding one hundred.
It is believed that if one animal (leader or key whale) in the group is sick or injured and enters shallow water to strand,
the remaining group members will follow the sick animal in response to distress calls and strand.

Disease or parasitic infection – Most animals carry several external and internal parasites. However, when parasite numbers
exceed normal levels (varies per species), this may affect the animal’s health, feeding and navigational ability.

Coastal topography – Toothed whales that use echolocation to detect and navigate seafloor topography may be misled by
a gently sloping ocean floor of a shallow bay (e.g. Doctors Reef in St. Helena Bay). A gentle slope will deflect, rather than
reflect echolocation pulses, leading the animals to believe they are in deeper water. Many stranding ‘hot spots’ around
the world are characterised by a gently sloping, shallow bay.

Anomalies in the Earth’s magnetic field – It has been proposed that some species navigate using the Earth’s magnetic field.
Cetacean mass stranding events in certain regions of the world have been linked to geomagnetic anomalies which occur
when local magnetic fields shift during sunspot activity.

Abandoned neonates and malnourished juveniles – Abandoned neonates are particularly common in Southern right whales
and some coastal dolphin species. Malnourished humpback whale juveniles are also known to strand, probably as a
result of an inability to forage independently or the death of the mother.
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Severe oceanographic and weather conditions – Animals may come ashore following a severe storm due to extreme wind
and oceanographic conditions.

Predatory interactions – Animals may congregate or be herded close to shore in response to threats from predators. This
may lead to distress and confusion in the shallower water and result in animals stranding. Furthermore, animals may
strand with injuries sustained from predation (e.g. pectoral fins or tail flukes missing from shark or killer whale attacks).
Alternatively, animals may follow their prey inshore or up onto the beach, becoming stranded.

Natural toxins – Animals may strand in response to natural toxins such as algal blooms.

Anthropogenic factors (from DEFF National Response Plan for Cetacean Strandings)
Noise interference – Anthropogenic ocean noise arises from vessel traffic, seismic surveying, oil and gas exploration and
military operations using low and mid-frequency sonar. Noise is believed to impact upon the behaviour, perceptions and
physiology of marine animals, in particular cetacean species that rely on evolutionary adaptations to use acoustics for
navigation, avoidance of predators, foraging for food and reproduction. Deep diving beaked whale species may be
particularly susceptible to anthropogenic ocean noise, and mass strandings of Cuvier’s beaked whales around the world
have been linked to anthropogenic noise (in some of these cases, animals have shown decompression sickness-like
symptoms suggesting behavioural or physiological impacts).

Toxins – Anthropogenic toxins (such as mercury or persistent organic pollutants from fertilisers and other man-made
products) present in the ocean may result in animals becoming poisoned and stranding due to poor health or death.

Sustained injury – Many animals wash up on the beach, either dead or in poor condition, as a result of anthropogenic injuries,
such as those from ship strikes, propeller cuts and entanglements in fishing gear. Furthermore, animals may strand as a
direct result of entanglement in gear or discarded material.

Collection of Samples
In addition to overall coordination, Ezemvelo also endeavours to collect biological samples from every stranding event for
various research institutions. This includes the Mammal Research Institute (University of Pretoria), Oceans and Coast
(Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment) and the Port Elizabeth Museum/Bayworld. Samples collected generally
include skin and blubber used for DNA and heavy metal analysis and occasionally a skull. Collecting samples is becoming
increasingly more important considering the increasing anthropogenic pressures which may be driving stranding events. The
Network will continually endeavour to collect samples when possible.

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 RESULTS

The number of reported strandings Figure 1: Total count as reported along the KZN coastline between 2008 and 2019.
decreased from 98 in 2018 to 76 in 2019.
Since 2008, a total of 777 stranding incidents
have been recorded in KZN (Figure 1). A total
of 19 different species were recorded during
2019, six (6) less than in 2018, with all animal
groups, as selected by this monitoring
programme being represented, except
whale sharks. Figure 2 shows the number of
stranding incidents, including animal groups,
occurring between 2008 and 2019. The
stranding network was fully implemented in
KZN in 2008, with an increasing number of
reports received over the 12-year period.
Reasons for this include better reporting, training initiatives, awareness and social media. In addition, bird data from CROW
and Second Chance Avian Rescue (SCAR) were included in the database from 2011 and 2016, respectively. SCAR, however,
closed its doors in early 2019 with 2018 data being extracted from Facebook.

Figure 2: Total count and number of animals in respective groups as reported along
the KZN coastline between 2008 and 2019.

OCCURRENCE AND DISTRIBUTION OF STRANDINGS IN KZN

Stranding incidents along the KZN coast were mainly reported in the vicinity of Durban (Figure 3). This is due to the high
concentration of people within these areas, i.e. more people frequenting the beaches that can report stranded animals. The
number of stranded animals in the northern areas of KZN and within iSimangaliso Wetland Park, is low due to long stretches
of coastline which are isolated and difficult to access. Apart from Ezemvelo staff patrolling this area, the quantity of
information from members of the public and residents within the main coastal nodes (St Lucia & Sodwana Bay) is minimal.

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Figure 3: Occurrence and density of stranded
animals reported during 2019 along the KZN
coastline.
Many birds are reported from highly populated areas and are taken
to rehabilitation centres because they are ‘easy’ to transport by
members of the public who drive them to rehabilitation facilities
whereas the larger and more charismatic animals such as turtles
and seals, the public are inclined to request assistance from
authorities or officials.

The distribution of strandings for six animal groups recorded during

2019 is illustrated in Figure 4. Turtles, sea birds and dolphins occur
in KZN waters all year round, while seals, penguins and large whales
are winter visitors and generally occur in the southern sections of
the coastline. In 2019, a Sub Antarctic Fur Seal and an African
Penguin were recorded at Zinkwazi. In the case of birds, most
reports are from the central and south of the province due to
reports received from rehabilitation facilities located in these areas.
Data from two rehabilitation facilities, namely CROW and SAAMBR
in Durban contributed to a large portion of the overall bird data.
SCAR closed in early 2019 which was expected to have an influence on
reporting and data for 2019 and for birds being reported in the future
years to come.

Figure 4: Distribution of reported stranded animal groups along the KZN coastline during 2019.

Penguins

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 ANIMAL GROUPS AND SPECIES

In 2019, 50 birds, 14 turtles, five whales, nine seals and three dolphins were reported for KZN (Figure 5). Table 1 lists the 19
species which contributed to the 76 reported individuals. In terms of seabirds, there were four African penguins, eight terns,
two cormorants, 20 cape gannets, five kelp gulls, four petrels and two shearwaters. For turtles, there were seven Loggerhead
and six Green turtles. There were four Humpbacks and one unidentified whale reported, with one Indo-pacific bottlenose
dolphin and two Spinner dolphins, being recorded. Furthermore, six sub-Antarctic fur seals and three South African fur seals
were also recorded.
Figure 5: Number of individual animals in each category with percentage
contribution to total number of strandings in 2019.

Total Individuals: 76

Table 1. List and number of each stranded species along the KZN coastline during 2019.

Animal Group Common Name Species Number

Birds Cory's Shearwater Calonectris diomedea 1
Kelp Gull Larus dominicanus 5
Cape Gannet Morus capensis 20
Cormorant Phalacrocoracidae 2
White-Chinned Petrel Procellaria aequinoctialis 2
Great-winged Petrel Pterodroma macroptera 1
Soft-plumaged Petrel Pterodroma mollis 1
Tropical Shearwater Puffinus bailloni 1
African Penguin Spheniscus demersus 4
Common Tern Sterna hirundo 3
Little Tern Sternula albifrons 1
Sandwich Tern Thalasseus sandvicensis 4
Dolphins Spinner Dolphin Stenella longirostris 2
Bottlenose dolphin Tursiops aduncus 1
Seals South African Fur Seal Arctocephalus pusillus 3
Sub Antarctic Fur Seal Arctocephalus tropicalis 6
Turtles Loggerhead turtle Caretta caretta 7
Green turtle Chelonia mydas 6
Whales Humpback whale Megaptera novaeangliae 4
Total 76
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 FATE OF STRANDED ANIMALS

Figure 6 illustrates the fate of the animals as they came

Figure 6: Percentage of stranded animals which were found alive,
ashore. Twenty-six animals (34.2%) were recorded as alive,
dead, subsequently died along the KZN coastline during 2019.
of these, nine returned to the water on their own, 16 were
released by rehabilitation facilities and another four were
released immediately after stranding. Twenty-eight (36.8%)
animals were dead when found while 22 animals (28.9%)
subsequently died, either on the beach during the rescue,
were euthanised or died while in a rehabilitation facility.

In general, animals with a life history stage occurring on

land, such as birds, seals and turtles tend to fare better than
those animals who do not, such as dolphins, whales and
whale sharks. Large animals which are not adapted to land
experience organ failure when, in the absence of buoyancy
provided by water, their full weight bears down on their organs and crushes them. Therefore, the condition of a live-stranded
cetacean or whale degenerates almost immediately due to the excessive pressure on their tissues and organs. This, together
with stress, becomes a key concern when rescue and rehabilitation options are considered. In the case of whale sharks,
which has gills, the key element to their survival is the time taken to mount a rescue attempt and whether the animal is in
the water or not. In the case of birds, long-range species such as Albatrosses and Petrels do not rehabilitate very easily as
they are accustomed to living on the water and in the air with flight being an essential part of their life-history to maintain
body condition. They also require extended run-ups in order to lift and fly and in many cases extensive space requirements
are not available in rehabilitation facilities. Figure 7 illustrates the status/fate of each animal group for 2019.

Humpback whale on Umhlanga Beach, 13 October

2019, removed by EThekwini Municipality.

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Figure 7. Percentage of each animal group found dead, alive, subsequently dying and the number of released animals along the KZN coastline
during 2019. Number in brackets on x-axis are the number of individuals.

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 MARINE DEBRIS
Fishing hooks found in multiple locations on the body and
in the appendages of a Cape Gannet (13 June 2019).
Marine debris can be defined as human-created waste that has
deliberately or accidentally been released into the ocean. It includes
plastics, fishing gear (ropes, nets, hooks, gut) and balloons.

Marine debris is an increasing cause of animal strandings globally but

has only been recorded in the KZN stranding database since 2016.
The total number of animals recorded for KZN is 35 since 2016 (10.7
% of all stranded animals from 2016-2019). In 2019, there were 10
animals recorded to have stranded due to interaction with marine
debris. One was dead, while nine were alive when found. Of these,
three died during rehabilitation, two were released in 2019, and two
in 2020 at the time of this report. The remaining two are destined to
be released if fit or potentially be included in existing captive
colonies. In 2019, all marine debris recorded was fishing gut and/or
hooks.

REHABILITATED AND/OR RELEASED ANIMALS

In 2019, 16 animals were released after rehabilitation Green turtle found on beach at Sodwana Bay by uFudu Tours (Photo:
or in situ rescue (Table 2). Of these animals, seven Peter Jacobs; 13 December 2019).
stranded in 2017 & 2018 and were released in 2019.

A single animal was released within the day of being

rescued, while three animals were in rehabilitation
centres for longer than 12 months while eight were in
rehabilitation for less than one month. The longest
duration for animals in rehabilitation to be released in
2019 were 625 days (African Penguin), 497 days (green
turtle) and 377 (kelp gull) days.

Currently, there is no formal release policy for marine

animals in South Africa. However, any releases within
iSimangaliso Wetland Park require a permit from the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority while Threatened or Protected
Species (ToPS) require a health assessment by a veterinarian and the release is reported to Ezemvelo who maintains release
records and reports to the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries.

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Table 2. List of stranded animals released in 2019 by rehabilitation facilities or organisations in KZN. SAAMBR: South African Association for Marine Biological Research (uShaka
Marine World) and CROW: Centre for Rehabilitation Of Wildlife.
Date Location Rehabilitation Period in
Location Found Animal species Release date Notes
Stranded Released facility Captivity (days)
African Penguin NAMED: INDIGO. Found on beach. Wounded. Taken to
2017/09/11 Zinkwazi Beach Port Elizabeth 2019/05/29 SAAMBR 625
(Spheniscus demersus) SAAMBR. Sent to SANCCOB for release.
Kelp Gull (Larus
2018/01/01 Durban Harbour Durban 2019/01/13 CROW Gut around wings and very thin. 377
dominicanus)
Green turtle (Chelonia NAMED ANNA. Found by member of the public and taken to
2018/06/19 Pennington Beach Sodwana Bay 2019/10/29 SAAMBR 497
mydas) SAAMBR. Released off 2-mile reef.
Green turtle (Chelonia NAMED: BELLA. Collected and taken to SAAMBR. Released off
2018/07/01 Pumula Sodwana Bay 2019/10/29 SAAMBR 120
mydas) 2-mile reef.
NAMED EQUINOX. Found in Mtunzini, transported to
African Penguin
2018/09/12 Mtunzini Port Elizabeth 2019/02/21 SAAMBR SAAMBR by Ezemvelo. Animal was a small juvenile, very weak 162
(Spheniscus demersus)
and lethargic.
NAMED: FLASH. Transported by NSRI Ballito to SAAMBR.
African Penguin
2018/09/21 Zinkwazi Beach Port Elizabeth 2019/02/21 SAAMBR Animal appeared strong, although a little thin and 153
(Spheniscus demersus)
dehydrated.
NAMED GROOT: Seen initially in Pennington then stranded on
African Penguin
2018/12/17 Scottburgh Beach Port Elizabeth 2019/05/29 SAAMBR Scottburgh main beach. Animal wounded and taken to 163
(Spheniscus demersus)
SAAMBR. Sent to SANCCOB for release.
Cape Gannet (Morus Animal confiscated and transported to Tembe Nature
2019/01/24 Tembe Elephant Park Kosi Bay 2019/01/24 Ezemvelo 1
capensis) Reserve. Animal released at Kosi Bay.
Cormorant
2019/02/02 Unknown Durban 2019/02/14 CROW Disorientated upon arrival at CROW. Released at Blue Lagoon. 12
(Phalacrocoracidae)
Cape Gannet (Morus
2019/07/24 Unknown Durban 2019/08/09 CROW Underweight. Released out at sea. 15
capensis)
Kelp Gull (Larus Fishhook in foot web and fishing line around the wing.
2019/07/29 Unknown Bluff 2019/08/06 CROW 7
dominicanus) Released on Bluff Beach.
African Penguin NAMED CAPPUCCHINO. Thin and under-nourished, stiff in the
2019/07/29 Ballito Port Elizabeth 2019/10/28 SAAMBR 91
(Spheniscus demersus) legs. Released.
Between Ansteys & Cape Gannet (Morus NAMED GARTH. Appeared healthy, unable to fly. Taken to
2019/07/30 Durban 2019/08/13 SAAMBR 13
Garvies Beaches capensis) SAAMBR. Released off DBN.
Found by member of the public, taken to SPCA. Surgery
Soft-plumaged Petrel performed to remove eye on 5 October 2019. Taken to
2019/10/01 Port Shepstone Durban 2019/10/21 SAAMBR 20
(Pterodroma mollis) SAAMBR for further care. Released 8 nautical miles off
Durban. NSRI in attendance.
White-Chinned Petrel
Found on Durban promenade and taken to SAAMBR.
2019/11/10 Durban Promenade Durban (Procellaria 2019/11/13 SAAMBR 3
Released 3 nautical miles offshore Durban.
aequinoctialis)
Taken to FREEME in Howick but the location of where it was
Tropical Shearwater
Unknown Durban 2019/11/13 SAAMBR found is unknown. Taken to SAAMBR on 13 November 2019. 1
(Puffinus bailloni)
Released 3 nautical miles off Durban.

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 INDIVIDUAL STRANDING INCIDENTS REPORTED DURING 2019
Summary of stranding incidents which occurred during 2019 along the KZN coastline. SRU - Specialised Rescue Unit; SAAMBR - South African Association for Marine Biological
Research (uShaka Sea World); KZNSB – KZN Sharks Board; CROW – Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife; SCAR – Second Chance Avian Rescue; Ezemvelo – Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife;
NSRI – National Sea Rescue.

Date Fate/Status Species Location Additional Notes

2019/01/01 Subsequently died Sternula albifrons No apparent injuries. Very thin. Died. Mature. Reported by CROW.
(Little Tern)
2019/01/14 Dead Caretta caretta Brighton Beach, Animal had been dead for a day or two. Decomposing, high barnacle load.
(Loggerhead turtle) Durban Length: 800mm, Width: 800mm. Mature. Female. Removed by eThekwini
on 15 Jan 2019. Reported by SAAMBR.

2019/01/20 Subsequently died Caretta caretta Umhlanga Main, Named Destiny. SAAMBR received a call about a loggerhead turtle being
(Loggerhead turtle) Umhlanga washed around in the surf at Umhlanga Beach. The lifeguards took it out
onto the beach. She was inverted and had foam coming out her mouth.
Collected by Ezemvelo and taken to SAAMBR. An adult, female. She was
tagged (PP400), very thin, skin was necrotic, covered in barnacles and she
was bleeding from a number of superficial injuries on her flippers. She was
also notched 4R:3L. Died 28 January 2019. Length: 930mm, Width: 860mm.
Mature.

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2019/01/24 Alive Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Tembe Elephant Park, Ezemvelo confiscated a bird in the Pelindaba circle area but they could not
KwaNgwanase identify the bird. Images were sent to Ezemvelo’s Mammal & Bird Scientist
and identified as a juvenile Cape Gannet. Its wings were examined for any
loss or damage to the feathers and was taken to Kosi Bay for release on the
beach.

2019/01/30 Subsequently died Thalasseus sandvicensis Found on ground with no apparent injuries. Thin. Died. Immature.
(Sandwich Tern) Reported by CROW.
2019/01/31 Dead Chelonia mydas (Green turtle) Umhlanga Main Beach, Taken to KZN Sharks Board freezer. Carcass fresh. Reported by eThekwini
Umhlanga Lifeguards. Appeared under nourished. Mature. Female.

2019/02/02 Alive Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorant) Disorientated upon arrival. Released at Blue Lagoon. Immature. Released
on 2019/02/14. Reported by CROW.

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2019/02/16 Dead Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Sheffield beach, Ballito A dead gannet was reported on the KZN Waste Network. It was being kept
in a member of the public’s freezer and due to transport issues, Ezemvelo
advised that she should discard the bird as she was complaining of having it
in her freezer. On 21 April, she contacted Ezemvelo saying she still had the
bird in her freezer. Ezemvelo had the bird collected 24 April. A post-
mortem was undertaken on 28 April 2019 by Ezemvelo but the results were
inconclusive and the cause of death was undetermined. The animal was
emaciated. However, due to funding and no access to laboratory facilities,
no diagnostics, tissue or blood samples were obtained. Immature.

2019/03/01 Subsequently died Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Died. Immature. Reported by CROW.
2019/03/25 Subsequently died Larus dominicanus (Kelp Gull) Infection. Died. Immature. Spinal damage. Reported by CROW.
2019/04/02 Dead Chelonia mydas (Green turtle) Park Rynie, Pristine Reported by member of the public. She requested the caretaker at the
Pools, Scottburgh municipal tidal pool to move the turtle into the dune so it would not wash
away. Upon arrival 10:10, post-mortem undertaken by Ezemvelo on the
beach. Full stomach contents extracted. Seaweeds, sponges and some
ascidians were found throughout the gut including in the upper
gastrointestinal tract. The lung and heart were inspected for parasites or
lesions, but they appeared healthy. The right front flipper was badly
damaged with many of the bones dislocated and broken. The scales had
peeled off and it was decayed. The head felt dislocated from the spinal
column, but it was unknown if the dislocation was pre- or post mortem.
Head retained for skull. Carcass fresh. Length: 430mm, width:428mm.
Mature. Female. Buried on beach. Marine debris implicated in death. Right
flippers both damaged.
2019/04/03 Subsequently died Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorant) , Died. Immature. Reported by CROW.

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2019/04/07 Dead Caretta caretta (Loggerhead Illovo Beach, On Sunday 7 April 2019, Ezemvelo was tagged on Facebook about a turtle
turtle) Kingsburgh which was being preyed upon by Palmnut vulture on the Illovo river bank
under the N2 bridge. Animal mature. Buried. Reported by South Coast
Birding Club.
2019/05/02 Dead Turtle (Unidentified species) Vetches, Durban Only pieces were found. Reported to SAPS as a dead human body. Taken by
the tide. Carcass decomposed. Immature.
2019/05/09 Alive Arctocephalus tropicalis (Sub Zinkwazi Main Beach, Animal left to rest on beach. Returned to water in early evening. NSRI was
Antarctic Fur Seal) Zinkwazi in attendance. Mature. Male.

2019/05/17 Subsequently died Larus dominicanus (Kelp Gull) Southbroom, Bird taken to Dr Lizelle Floyd in Southbroom, then collected by unknown
Southbroom person and taken to an unknown rehabilitation facility. Fate of bird
unknown. No pictures. Appeared sick.
2019/05/19 Dead Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Between Sheffield, Salt Member of the public was requested to collect carcass for Ezemvelo but
Rock upon arrival for collection, the carcass had been given to an unknown
person. Carcass fresh. Location of carcass unknown. Mature.

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2019/05/19 Subsequently died Thalasseus sandvicensis , Found on ground with slight oil under belly. Aspergillosis (fungus). Died.
(Sandwich Tern) Immature. Reported by CROW.
2019/05/23 Subsequently died Sterna hirundo (Common Tern) Elysium, Scottburgh A common tern was reported in Elysium, south of Scottburgh. This animal
was collected but died during the trip back to Durban. Post-mortem
undertaken, cause of death unknown but evidence of neurological issue.
Mature. Lethargic behaviour.

2019/06/02 Dead Procellaria aequinoctialis Umhlanga Lagoon, Found dead on beach. Carcass decomposed. No injuries. Mature.
(White-Chinned Petrel) Umhlanga

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2019/06/05 Subsequently died Stenella longirostris (Spinner Sodwana Bay, Refloat attempted but failed, animal died soon after. Post-mortem
Dolphin) Mbazwana undertaken by Sharklife, animal was pregnant. Mature. Female. Bruising on
abdomen.

2019/06/11 Dead Chelonia mydas (Green turtle) Trafalgar, Trafalgar This animal was reported dead and decomposed on 11 June 2019,
Ezemvelo collected on 12 June. The carcass and the head were buried on
Garvies beach on the Bluff, Durban. The head was retrieved a month later
and skull was retained. Carcass decomposed. Immature. Female. Broken
shell, left upper side.

2019/06/13 Alive Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) La Montagne Resort, Fishing gear removed and bird released. Immature.
Ballito

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2019/06/16 Dead Tursiops aduncus (Bottlenose Chain Rocks, Ezemvelo was informed of a dead juvenile dolphin at Chain Rocks north of
dolphin) Amanzimtoti Amanzimtoti. The dolphin was relatively thin and very young. The carcass
was taken to KZN Sharks Board for the Port Elizabeth Museum. Carcass
fresh. Immature. Male. Scratches superficial.

2019/06/26 Subsequently died Spheniscus demersus (African Ushaka Beach, Durban Taken to SAAMBR by member of public, died shortly afterwards. Plastic
Penguin) found in stomach during post-mortem. Immature, bite wounds & thin.

2019/06/26 Subsequently died Spheniscus demersus (African Marina Beach, SPCA transported to SAAMBR. Immature.
Penguin) Margate

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2019/06/27 Alive Arctocephalus tropicalis (Sub Tweni Beach, Port Left on beach to rest. Returned to water in the afternoon. NSRI in
Antarctic Fur Seal) Shepstone attendance. Mature. Male.

2019/07/08 Alive Arctocephalus tropicalis (Sub The Estuary hotel, Port Chased back to the water by public. NSRI in attendance. Appeared healthy.
Antarctic Fur Seal) Edward Immature.

2019/07/12 Subsequently died Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Umtemtweni, Port Removed by Ezemvelo HO officers and taken to vet. Broken wing. No
Shepstone details of fate but most likely died. No pictures or details.
2019/07/13 Alive Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Ballito, Ballito Named Gerald. Taken to SAAMBR by member of public. Injured and
entangled in fishing hooks. Released off R/V Phakisa but failed to fly, re-
captured, sent to SANCOBB for further rehabilitation on 15 August 2019.
Immature.

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2019/07/21 Dead Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Glenmore, Port No details - comment on Facebook.
Shepstone
2019/07/24 Alive Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Underweight. Released out at sea on 9 August 2019. Mature. Reported by
CROW.
2019/07/28 Dead Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Port Edward, Port No details - Facebook. Mature.
Edward

2019/07/29 Dead Chelonia mydas (Green turtle) Tiffanys, Ballito Animal reported to Specialised Rescue Unit (Ballito). Animal left on beach.
Decomposing. Missing left hind flipper. Carcass decomposed. Length:
Approx. 350mm. Immature. Male.

2019/07/29 Dead Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Trafalgar, Port Edward Reported on Facebook by Trafalgar Conservation. Carcass decomposed.
Collected and buried on beach by Ezemvelo. Mature.

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2019/07/29 Alive Spheniscus demersus (African Ballito, Ballito Named Cappuccino. Thin and undernourished, stiff in the legs. Immature.
Penguin) Released on 28 October 2019. Couldn't walk, lethargic behaviour.

2019/07/29 Alive Larus dominicanus (Kelp Gull) Fishhook in foot web and fishing line around wing. Released on Bluff Beach
on 6 August 2019. Immature. Reported by CROW.
2019/07/30 Dead Spheniscus demersus (African Shelly Beach, Shelly Reported by Leisure Bay Conservation. Carcass discarded despite
Penguin) Beach requesting it to be handed over to Ezemvelo. Immature.

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2019/07/30 Alive Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Btw Ansteys & Garvies Named Garth. Appeared healthy, unable to fly. Taken to SAAMBR. Released
Beaches, Durban 13 August 2019 off DBN by SAAMBR. Mature.

2019/07/31 Alive Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Tiffanys Beach, Ballito Laceration on left wing, taken to SAAMBR, could not fly after rehabilitation.
NSRI in attendance. Sent to SANCOBB for further rehabilitation. Mature.

2019/08/01 Subsequently died Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Scottburgh, Scottburgh Adult Cape Gannet found on beach in Scottburgh and taken to Crocworld
by a member of the public. Crocworld contacted SAAMBR for assistance.
The bird was collected by Dr Lampen and had a fishing line sticking out of
its beak, with suspected fishing hooks embedded in oesophagus. Died on 6
August 2019 after procedure to remove hook. Mature.

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2019/08/03 Alive Arctocephalus tropicalis (Sub Saltrock Main, Ballito Animal relocated to Tinley Manor. NSRI (Ballito) and SAAMBR in
Antarctic Fur Seal) attendance. Immature. Male. Lethargic.

2019/08/03 Dead Sterna hirundo (Common Tern) Umhlanga Lagoon, Found by Ezemvelo staff. Left on beach.
Umhlanga
2019/08/03 Dead Larus dominicanus (Kelp Gull) Umhlanga Estuary, This Kelp Gull was ringed (K50979) on 18 November 2018 at
Umhlanga Amsterdamhoek, Swartkops by Dr P Martin. It was found dead floating on
the Umhlanga lagoon on 3 August 2019. It had been 8 months, and 18 days
since tagging and the distance travels since last sighting was 693 km.
Information from SAFRING. Mature.
2019/08/05 Alive Arctocephalus tropicalis (Sub Westbrook, Durban Animal chased back to the water - could be Boston which came onto
Antarctic Fur Seal) Beachwood beach on 12 August 2019. NSRI in attendance. Immature.
Female. Lethargic.

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2019/08/12 Alive Arctocephalus tropicalis (Sub Beachwood, Durban Named Boston. Ezemvelo received report of a seal at Beachwood from a
Antarctic Fur Seal) pilot who had been flying to Virginia Airport. It was reported to Metro
police who attended to the seal. Subadult, female. She appeared to be in
good condition. Apart from fishermen and vagrants in the area, the beach
is relatively quiet, and she was left to rest. Over three days, members of the
Durban Metro Search and Rescue and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife staff checked
on her periodically throughout the day and night. On late Wednesday
evening, a dog chased the seal back into the water, and she did not return
to the beach. Immature. Female. Appeared healthy.

2019/08/12 Subsequently died Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Hook perforated gut. Died. Immature. Reported by CROW.
2019/08/16 Dead Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Umzumbe, Hibberdene Left on beach. Carcass decomposed. Mature.
2019/09/02 Dead Megaptera novaeangliae Dog Beach,Umlalazi, Length approx. 10-13m.
(Humpback whale) Mtunzini

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2019/09/04 Dead Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Umzumbe, Port Decomposed. Left on beach. Mature.
Shepstone

2019/09/07 Alive Chelonia mydas (Green turtle) Umlalazi, Mtunzini Named Emily. Ezemvelo received a report of a sick, live green turtle which a
member of the public had found. They were requested to hand it over to
Umlalazi Nature Reserve staff, but they were turned away. After some
negotiating with Umlalazi Conservation Manager, the Ezemvelo staff
transported the turtle to uShaka Marine World. Mature. Female.

2019/09/08 Subsequently died Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Ushaka, Durban Found in restaurant in uShaka Village Walk. Bird reportedly came stumbling
into restaurant during strong winds and was resting on the floor, unable to
walk properly and very weak. Died on 18 September 2019. Immature.
Disorientated. Reported by SAAMBR.

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2019/09/14 Dead Megaptera novaeangliae North of Shelly Beach Ezemvelo received a report of a dead Humpback whale on Shelly Beach.
(Humpback whale) launch site, Shelly The animal washed ashore late on Saturday afternoon. Due to lack of
beach capacity by the municipality and DEFF, the animal was harvested. NSRI and
Ezemvelo in attendance. Length: 13m. Mature.

2019/09/19 Subsequently died Larus dominicanus (Kelp Gull) Vetchies, Durban Rescued close to Durban Underwater Club (DUC). Very lethargic. Died same
day. Immature. Lethargic.
2019/09/20 Dead Caretta caretta (Loggerhead Shadrock, Southbroom Female turtle washed ashore on Southbroom beach. Ezemvelo Honorary
turtle) Officers took measurements and photos. The animal measured 100cm in
length and was relatively decomposed. Carcass decomposed and buried.
Length:1000mm width:800mm. Mature. Single blunt gash on dorsal side of
carapace.
2019/09/28 Dead Megaptera novaeangliae Umlalazi, Mtunzini Whale carcass was reported in the surf on Facebook. The carcass was very
(Humpback whale) decomposed but appeared less decomposed than the carcass reported
earlier in September from the same location in Mtunzini. On 19 October
Ezemvelo received new pictures of a carcass in the Mtunzini estuary. It was
most likely the same carcass. Left in lagoon. Mature.

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2019/10/01 Alive Pterodroma mollis (Soft- Port Shepstone, Port Found by member of the public, taken to SPCA. Surgery performed to
plumaged Petrel) Shepstone remove eye on 5 October 2019. Taken to SAAMBR for further care.
Released 8 nautical miles off Durban. NSRI in attendance. Damaged eye.

2019/10/13 Dead Megaptera novaeangliae Umhlanga, Umhlanga An adult humpback whale, 15m, washed ashore in the early hours of
(Humpback whale) Sunday morning (13 October). It was on the sandy portion of the beach
within a narrow deep channel with a shallow sandbank on the offshore side
of the animal. The animal was slightly under weight and full of whale lice.
Lying on its back, indicating that it had been dead for a while. EThekwini
Parks department removed the animal. Mature. Female.

2019/10/26 Subsequently died Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Beachwood Golf A report was received of a Cape Gannet which could not fly on Beachwood
course, Durban golf course beach. SAAMBR found the bird had an oily substance on it. The
animal was taken to rehab and although the washing of the oil went well, a
moderately old injury was found under its wing. It recovered well but was
very tame and took fish easily giving the impression it had been in the care
of people before. The bird recovered well and was due to be released. It
did not fly on release (13 Nov 2019), got waterlogged and was returned to
rehab where its condition deteriorated. It died on 15 November 2019.
Mature.

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2019/10/29 Alive Morus capensis (Cape Gannet) Umzumbe, Hibberdene Inspected by SPCA but left on beach, reported to have flown away the
following week. Mature. Lethargic.

2019/10/29 Dead Caretta caretta (Loggerhead Liefildts Rocks, St Lucia Was in advanced state of decomposition, Left it on the beach. Length:
turtle) 1050mm, Width: 990mm. Mature.

2019/11/10 Alive Procellaria aequinoctialis Durban Promenade, Found lying on Durban promenade, taken to SAAMBR. Released 3 nautical
(White-Chinned Petrel) Durban miles offshore Durban. Lethargic.

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2019/11/12 Alive Caretta caretta (Loggerhead North of Leven Point, A nesting turtle fell over the top of a dune, entrapping herself. She was
turtle) St Lucia assisted back over the dune and into the water by Ezemvelo and SAAMBR
staff. Length: 880mm, width: 560mm. Mature. Female.

2019/11/13 Alive Puffinus bailloni (Tropical Unknown Taken to FREEME in Howick but the location of where it was found is
Shearwater) unknown. Taken to SAAMBR on 13 November 2019. Released 3 nautical
miles off Durban. Head wound. Reported by SAAMBR.

2019/11/16 Alive Arctocephalus pusillus (South Mtunzi Beach, Named Mtunzi. On Saturday 9 November a report of a small seal was
African Fur Seal) Scottburgh reported at Amanzimtoti. It was chased back into the water by a member
of the public. EThekwini lifeguards assisted and followed it along the beach
for several hours, the seal did not come back onto the beach and the
weather deteriorated. Over the following week numerous reports of the
seal were received but he was very skittish and when people approached it,
he darted back into the water. A week later, a team from SAAMBR and
Ezemvelo mobilised and caught the seal. The seal is a very young but alert
and feisty. SAAMBR flew him to Port Elizabeth and released by SANParks
and the PE Museum/Bayworld at Black Rocks off Port Elizabeth. Immature.
Male.

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2019/11/24 Subsequently died Stenella longirostris (Spinner Umhlanga, Umhlanga A report of a dolphin in the vicinity of Grannies pool, Umhlanga Rocks. A
Dolphin) large pod of dolphins was also sighted offshore. The animal was soon
refloated behind backline with the intention of reuniting the animal with
the pod offshore. The animal swam off strongly. The animal beached again
20 minutes later to the north at Bronze beach. Given the location of the
animal and the difficulties of securing it, the animal was relocated back to
Grannies pool, but its condition deteriorated extremely rapidly. The animal
was euthanised. Length:1.3m. Immature. Male.

2019/11/24 Subsequently died Pterodroma macroptera (Great- Umhlanga, Umhlanga Found by member of public and taken to CROW. Taken to SAAMBR for
winged Petrel) further care. Lethargic, no physical injuries. Bird died 26 November 2019.

2019/11/30 Dead Unidentified species Richards Bay South, NSRI had hoped to tow the carcass offshore but it came ashore. No further
Richards Bay reports of carcass thereafter. Carcass decomposed.

2019/12/04 Alive Arctocephalus pusillus (South Southbroom, Port Reported early in morning and still in same place at lunch but did not
African Fur Seal) Edward appear to be in distress. Returned to the water. Immature.

2019/12/10 Subsequently died Thalasseus sandvicensis Very thin. Died. Immature. Reported by CROW.
(Sandwich Tern)

2019/12/11 Subsequently died Thalasseus sandvicensis Off balance. Died. Immature. Reported by CROW.
(Sandwich Tern)

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2019/12/13 Alive Chelonia mydas (Green turtle) Sodwana, Manguzi Named Zoe. Animal was caught in a large bundle of fishing rope. The turtle
was removed from the beach and disentangled by Turtle tour operator. The
animal was transported to Durban by WILDOCEANS and handed to
SAAMBR. Immature. Female.

2019/12/24 Dead Caretta caretta (Loggerhead Zimbali, Ballito Buried by Zimbali Environmental Manager and staff. Images sent by
turtle) member of the public. Carcass decomposed. Buried. Length:1100mm,
Width: 940mm. Mature. Female.

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2019/12/26 Alive Arctocephalus pusillus (South Caribbean Estates, Seal spotted on 26 December, left on beach until 11 January, returned to
African Fur Seal) the water. Communication with Caribbean Estates were established and
seal was in good health. Lethargic. Immature.

2019/12/28 Alive Calonectris diomedea (Cory's Durban Harbour, N- Found next to MSC vessel, with plastic string around right leg. Released by
Shearwater) Shed, Durban NSRI close to continental shelf in January 2020.

2019/12/29 Dead Sterna hirundo (Common Tern) Garvies, Durban Reported by Ezemvelo. No marine debris. Carcass fresh. Mature.

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ADDITIONAL REPORT (NOT INCLUDED IN RESULTS)
2019/06/22 Alive Buteo rufofuscus (Jackal Umhlanga Main, Found on beach by Lifeguard’s, after heavy winds. Taken to CROW.
Buzzard) Umhlanga Rocks

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 RECOMMENDATIONS

The KZN Stranding Network continues to operate effectively but several improvements or recommendations are listed
below:

• Building and improving capacity within the KZN Stranding Network: Continue to interact with partner
organisations by providing and obtaining guidance and training.
• Protected Species and Legislation: Ensure that the public are guided appropriately when assisting with
stranded animals based on the Marine Threatened and Protected Species Regulations.
• Education and awareness: The well-intentioned acts of the public have resulted in the prolonged suffering of
many stranded animals. The welfare of animals in distress is a large portion of educating the public when
dealing with stranded animals. Further public engagements, workshops and awareness material are effective
in educating those people who are able and willing to assist.
• Equipment: The correct equipment required for capturing and transporting animals to relocation areas or
rehabilitation facilities is essential. In addition, education and training props are also required. Proposals for
funding and fund-raising initiatives are on-going but assistance and marketing would be welcomed.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The KZN Marine Stranding Network cannot operate without the support and assistance from those across the
province. Many members of the KZN Marine Stranding Network contributed to this report and continue to support
the work which is undertaken. Contributions to the 2019 report include:

Mondli Dlamini and Santosh Bachoo (Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife) are both thanked for their efforts during and after
stranding events. Other contributing Ezemvelo staff include Caroline Fox, James Wood, Basil Pather and Catherine
Hanekom. The following are thanked: Greg Thompson, Mike Anderson-Reade and Wayne Harrison (KZN Sharks
Board); Dr Francois Lampen, Hayley Tennant, Kelly de Klerk, Malini Pather, Colette Bodenstaff, Craig Smith, Jone
Porter, Tracy Shaw, Gabby Harris, Ann Kunz, Ana Eyre, Armand de Koker, Bianca Harwood, Bilal Limbada, Dave Pearton,
Debbie Esmond White, Gavin Drysdale, Jamie Lee Swartz, Judy Mann, Kathy Drummond, Larry Oellermann, Louise
Allen, Marle Bernade, Peter Baloi, Presha Soogrim, Robert Kyle, Shaleen Bikka, Simon Chater, Tony McEwan, Ursula
Macklin, Bruce Mann (SAAMBR); Mdu Seakamela (Department of Environmental Affairs); Sue-Anne Schutte (CROW);
Quentin Power, Carmen Power and the team from Specialised Rescue Unit, Ballito; Steve Honneysett (Kwadukuza
Municipality); Jayce Govender, Mark Barber and Trafford Pettersen, Clint van Der Mervwe (eThekwini Municipality),
Siraj Parak (Transnet - Durban); Anna Jordan, Allan Williams, Nigel Eady and Anne Skelton, together with Ezemvelo
KZN Wildlife Honorary Officer Groups: Southcoast, Richards Bay and Durban North; Warrant Officer Francois
Pretorius, Warrant Officer Nel, Warrant Officer Romel Da Rosa, Warrant Officer Tholie Xaba (SAPS - Search and
Rescue); Durban Metro Search and Rescue (Captain Dean Nieuwoudt, Inspector Riaan Da Horta, Inspector Jason
Manggos, Constable Lee Bryant, Constable Mfanufikle Dlamini, Constable Rinardo Subramoney, S/lifeguard Sihle
Xaba); Sabelo Ngcobo, Philip Kilian, Elizabeth Cordiglia, Wynand Strauss, Dr Jurgen Horst Otto, (NSPCA); Sharlene van
der Slikke and Anne Skelton (Southbroom Conservancy); Sea Rescue (NSRI) Stations 5 (Durban), 19 (Richards Bay), 20
(Shelly Beach), 32 (Port Edward), 39 (Rocky Bay), 40 (St Lucia) and 41 (Ballito), various commanders and crew members
including Bernard Minnie, Gary Wolmarans, Brynn Gericke, Dave Daniel, Andre Fletcher, John Nicholas, Marlene
Livingstone, Ben Raymakers Jeremiah Jackson, Antoinette le Roux, Gerrit Du Plessis, Kevin Fourie, Ralph Jansen,
Quentin Power and Travis Clarke; Di Jones (Coastwatch); Grant Smith (Sharklife Sodwana), Shanan Atkins (Wits); Coral
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Divers Sodwana Bay Staff; OJ Symcox (Olivia Jones Communications); David Savides and Tamlyn Jolly (Zululand
Observer); Greg Hofmeyer (PE Museum / Bayworld) and various lifeguard groups within eThekwini, Kwadukuza, Ray
Nkonyeni and Umdoni municipalities. Omar Parak (KZN Provincial Department of Economic Development, Tourism
and Environmental Affairs). Dr Leon Brüggemann (Veterinarian – Margate) and Willie van der Westhuizen (Caribbean
Estates).

The public play an enormous role in the rescue of stranded animals and they are thanked for their dedication,
compassion and kindness in assisting the KZN Stranding Network staff in dealing with stranded animals. The following
members of the public are thanked for their efforts and providing information, care and transport during 2019: Dave
Pons, Debbie Smith, Annette Gerber, Heidi Smith, Jenny Evan, Pieter Jacobs, Royden Bryson, Sandy Olivier, David
Aldworth, Geremy Cliff, Danie Bezuidenhoudt, David Verheem, Jeff Asherwood, Simon Bosman and Peddy Bam.

Photographers: Many photos are shared and sent to the KZN Stranding Network from unknown sources, these
photographers are acknowledged for their valuable contribution, in which most often animals are assessed and/or
identified by these images and provide vital information in rescue and response. Where photographer/s or source/s
are known, these are acknowledged in text.

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