Robberg Nature Reserve & the Cape Fur Seal Colony

Robberg Nature Reserve is a protected area located on the Robberg Peninsula near Plettenberg Bay in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is known for its stunning coastal landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and its significance for marine wildlife, including the Cape Fur Seals.

Join us for a boat trip where you can get to view or swim with the Seals at Robberg Nature reserve.

The protected environment of Robberg Nature Reserve provides the seals with a safe place to give birth and nurse their pups.  They feed on squid and fish and their main predator is the Great White Shark particularly during the months of June and July when the pups are learning to swim and hunt.

The Cape Fur Seals at Robberg Nature reserve, sliding down the rocks & into the water

GENERAL INFO
  • The size of the colony is between 6000 to 8000 seals.
  • Varies in size depending on the food availability in the area.
  • A group of seals is called a ‘pod’
  • They have a life expectancy of 20 years
FEMALES
  • Grow up to 1.5m in size
  • They can weigh up to 120kg
  • Their gestation period is between 11-12 months
  • Females sexually mature from 9-12 years with 2-3 females to 1 male
MALES
  • Grow up to 2m in size
  • They can weigh between 200 – 300kg
  • Mating takes place during October, November & December
pups
  • Pupping happens during the first week of December
  • Foraging occurs at 7 months
  • The pups are weaned at 10-12 months
diet
  • Seals feed every 3-5 days
  • Fish, Squid, Octopus & Rays
  • Seals can consume up to 10% of their body weight

The seals are inquisitive & playful, they enjoy lazing on the rocks & the beach soaking up the sun. They generally remain close to land.

fun fact

When sleeping, the Cape Fur Seal stays afloat by paddling with one foreflipper & rests different parts of their brain at different times, keeping one eye open to watch out for predators.

The seals are exposed to several threats:

  • Commercial Fishing
  • Pollution
  • Human Disturbance
  • Severe Weather Conditions
  • Global Warming

They also have to be on the lookout for the following predators:

  • Orcas
  • Great White Sharks

More Useful Information