03/06/2026
OTTER CHAOS!! 🦦🥰
We received a panicked call yesterday from a Railton resident saying there was a strange animal running around Dahlia St causing commotion.
On attending the animal had run to hide into some bushes and was difficult to sight. Our inspector managed to see it appeared to be a wild mammal at least and the scared critter made another escape to Vollenhoven St where it hid in a storage shed. Having then confirmed the displaced animal was an otter, the inspector made contact with CapeNature officials who could not immediately attend as they were operating in the Vrolijkheid reserve some distance away. We unfortunately don't have the right equipment to deal with the situation and work closely with CapeNature on wildlife related issues.
A little later we received word the frightened otter had made its way back to Dahlia and eventually ran into a garage shed on Freesia St where we met with CapeNature to assist with the capture at the end of the day.
There were many obstructions as well as gaps in the structure making the job difficult, but Corne Claassen from CapeNature expertly and patiently guided the otter's escape path.
With supporting staff from CapeNature and the SPCA blocking other escape gaps, the otter eventually made its way into the trap which we'd wedged in the opening of the doors whilst keeping them shut and Inspector Dee waited to slide the trap door closed once the otter went in.
Soaked to the bone, we were all happy that the otter was safely captured and released having suffered no harm but also to go home and get into some warm clothes🌧🌧 🥶
Corne released the otter in a suitable area and sent us this lovely video so we could share with you.
Thank you to the residents who kept watch and to CapeNature for their assistance ❤️🙏
