Look up over the Western Cape coastline and you’ll likely spot marine conservation photographer Jean Tresfon flying overhead in his trusty gyrocopter.
For several years, Tresfon has been taking to the skies to capture spectacular aerial photographs of South Africa’s coastline and marine environment, sharing his work with a growing audience on social media.
If you’re not already one of his nearly 76 000 Facebook followers, we strongly suggest you click the ‘follow’ button now.
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Much-loved
On his most recent excursion, Tresfon photographed Buffel, the much-loved southern elephant seal.
Well-known to Cape Town’s marine community, he was spotted at Duiker Island looking healthy, plump and seemingly in good spirits.
His latest appearance is welcome news after concerns were raised when he recently turned up at Cape Point for his annual moult in poor condition.
At the time, his appearance sparked fears for his wellbeing.
Now, Buffel appears to be doing much better, with his latest sighting offering encouraging news for those who have followed his journey over the years.
Described affectionately as a “blubber submarine”, Buffel was spotted looking fat and healthy.
Buffel’s remarkable journey
Buffel was first tagged in 2016, when he was estimated to be around three years old. That makes him approximately 13 years old today.
Southern elephant seals are among the largest seals in the world, with males capable of growing to enormous sizes. Their lives at sea are punctuated by periods on land, including the annual moult, when they shed their old fur and grow a new coat.
During this process, their appearance can sometimes cause concern among observers, particularly when they look thin or unwell.
A Cape Town marine celebrity
Over the years, Buffel has become something of a celebrity in Cape Town’s marine scene, attracting attention whenever he appears along the coastline.
His latest visit to Duiker Island is likely to be welcomed by the many people who have come to recognise him and follow his movements.
Southern elephant seals typically live for around 14 to 15 years in the wild, although lifespans can vary. At approximately 13, Buffel is an older animal, making his apparent good condition particularly encouraging.
While a sighting alone cannot confirm an animal’s overall health, seeing Buffel looking so well is certainly positive news after the concerns surrounding his previous appearance.
For now, the giant seal appears to be enjoying life – and Cape Town’s marine watchers will be hoping to see plenty more of their favourite blubber submarine.
Picture published with the permission of Jean Tresfon