Latest news with #ElephantSeals
Daily Mail
28-07-2025
- Daily Mail
The world's only place where the sun never sets for two months every year - and how to travel there
From late November until the end of January there's a destination that experiences 24 hours of sunlight. Antarctica is located at southernmost point of the planet and is the least populated continent in the world. The chilly location attracts thousands of visitors a year with its gigantic icebergs and clear waters. Unknown to some, a natural phenomenon happens annually, mostly during Antarctica's summer months where the sun never completely sits below the horizon due to the Earth's tilt. This creates a constantly glowing sky, a natural wonder dubbed the Midnight Sun. Wildlife activity is also enhanced during the enchanting time and elephant seals basking on ice floes are a common sight. Adélie, chinstrap, and gentoo penguins tending to their chicks can also be seen. Holiday website Wildfoot Travel described the natural wonder as 'disorienting yet magical'. They said: 'You'll find yourself walking among penguins at 10pm, sailing past glowing blue icebergs well past midnight, or standing on deck as the sky turns gold and pink – and never goes dark. 'It's one of the most disorienting yet magical sensations on Earth.' Interest in visiting Antarctica is 'surging', according to the travel site, and travellers are encouraged to book early, especially for trips during the festive season. The company added: 'For many, it's not just about seeing the wildlife or the scenery – it's about feeling like you're part of a completely different world. 'The Midnight Sun adds a dreamlike quality that you can't get anywhere else on the planet.' Visitors not prepared for the sun never setting often find it difficult to sleep at first or feel confused over what time it is. The travel site recommends bringing a sleep mask to help block out light. Weather appropriate clothes are also recommended with temperatures only as high as -2 to 5 degrees in the summer months. It is advised to stick to a regular schedule, including set times for meals, to help stay regulated during the constant light. Though it isn't a tropical location, sun cream and moisturisers are still recommended because of how much the sun reflects off the ice. The cold temperatures can drain batteries quickly, so extra equipment is also encouraged.
The South African
27-05-2025
- General
- The South African
Cape Town residents shocked as Elephant Seal wanders the streets
In an unusual and unexpected turn of events, residents along Sir Lowry's Pass Road were met with a surprise visitor on Monday – a massive Elephant Seal that somehow found its way into a suburban area, far from its natural ocean environment. The Cape of Good Hope SPCA Inspectors are currently on-site, working carefully to relocate the marine mammal in a manner that is both safe and stress-free for the animal. 'This is a delicate situation,' said SPCA spokesperson Belinda Abraham. 'We are doing everything we can to ensure the animal is not harmed or further stressed. Our inspectors are trained for these kinds of rescues, but the cooperation of the public is essential.' Officials have asked the public to avoid the area and to give the seal – estimated to weigh up to 1 000kg – the space and calm it needs while the rescue operation is underway. Elephant Seals are not native to suburban areas and are rarely seen this far inland. Experts believe the animal may have become disoriented or exhausted after hauling out of the ocean. While unusual, this is not the first time a large marine animal has made headlines for turning up in unexpected places. Wildlife officials are reminding the public to observe from a distance, refrain from attempting to assist, and leave the operation to the trained professionals. The SPCA has confirmed that it will provide updates as the situation progresses. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
