Arabic version: حث الجمهور على إعطاء الأولوية لسلامة الفقمات بعد وفاة سامي
The suspected death of a beloved seal known as Sammy on the Mornington Peninsula has sparked calls for increased public education regarding seal safety. According to ABC News, marine experts are concerned that public interactions with seals can lead to harm for both the animals and people.
On Wednesday, Zoos Victoria reported that their Marine Response Unit responded to a call about a deceased seal in the area. While they could not confirm the identity of the seal, locals believe it was Sammy. The cause of death remains unknown, with tests expected to provide answers in the coming weeks.
Sammy gained a significant following online, thanks to influencer Bec Watson, who created a Facebook page in his name. However, after the seal’s suspected death, Watson faced backlash for allegedly encouraging people to approach Sammy. She defended her actions, stating that she always maintained a safe distance and aimed to share Sammy’s story without encouraging close encounters.
Marine conservationists emphasize the dangers of approaching wild seals. Jeff Weir from the Dolphin Research Institute noted that while many people respect seal behavior, some engage in risky actions, such as taking selfies too close to the animals. He highlighted that injuries from seals occur more frequently than those from sharks in Port Phillip Bay.
Saia Bartes, a marine biologist, reinforced the need for public awareness, explaining that disturbing resting seals can have negative consequences for their recovery and health. She urged people to maintain a safe distance from these wild animals, noting the potential for disease transmission between seals and humans.
In light of the events surrounding Sammy, Watson expressed regret over her decision to create a social media persona for the seal. She acknowledged the importance of educating the public on seal safety and proposed that social media can still serve as an effective tool for raising awareness, as long as it is done responsibly and without disturbing marine life.
