KZN Sharks Board warns public to be alert during Sardine Run
The KZN Sharks Board has urged lifeguards and the public to stay alert and aware of ocean activity, as sardine shoals and predator species move along the coast.
Bathing has been reopened between Hibberdene and Trafalgar – with exception of Umkobi near San Lameer, which remains closed.
However, there is no shark safety gear at beaches such as Port Edward, Glenmore, Leisure Bay and To Strand, and beachgoers are reminded to be cautious when entering the water.
'The lifeguards and public are asked to be on the lookout and aware of ocean activity,' said Wayne Harrison of the KZN Sharks Board.
'If you see any activity in the water, rather stay out.'
While predator activity has eased in some areas, the presence of sardines, red-eye, mackerel and other bait fish continues to attract larger marine life.
The board's winter strategy of removing shark nets and relying mainly on drumlines has drastically reduced the chances of mass or unwanted captures of marine animals during the Sardine Run and whale migration.
Harrison says this flexible approach aims to strike a balance – allowing safe bathing where possible, while protecting marine life and ensuring the public understands the risks during this unique coastal event.
The board will maintain this winter approach until the end of November when the whale migration season ends. Nets and drumlines are then adjusted to manage increased summer shark activity (especially the Zambezi bull shark) linked to warmer waters and rainfall.
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