When Jennifer Hobson first saw a young seal struggling with a plastic flying ring embedded deep in her neck, she couldn’t turn her back. That haunting image changed the course of her life. What began as a single act of rescue turned into a mission—protecting seals from the deadly grip of discarded plastic toys.
A Life-Changing Encounter on the Shoreline
Jennifer’s journey started on a quiet beach where she often walked to clear her mind. One day, she spotted a young seal lying motionless near the water’s edge. As she got closer, she saw the cause of its suffering—a bright plastic flying ring cutting into its neck, leaving deep, infected wounds. That seal didn’t survive, but the moment stayed with Jennifer. She vowed then and there that no other seal should suffer the same fate if she could help it.
From Beach Walks to Daily Rescues
What started as casual walks turned into daily patrols along the coast. Jennifer began working with local wildlife rescue teams, learning how to safely approach and help distressed seals. Armed with wire cutters and medical supplies, she’s now a familiar sight on the beaches, always searching for seals in trouble. She has freed dozens of seals from plastic rings, fishing lines, and other dangerous debris. Some are young pups, others fully grown adults, but every life saved is another small victory in her fight against pollution.
The Gentle Trust of a Wild Heart
Seals are naturally wary of humans, but Jennifer’s calm approach and gentle presence have earned their trust. She recalls one unforgettable moment when a mother seal, entangled in plastic, allowed Jennifer to approach and remove the dangerous ring—never once trying to flee. Each rescue builds a fragile bond of trust between Jennifer and these wild creatures, a bond forged in kindness and the shared will to survive.
Battling an Invisible Enemy
While rescuing seals one by one makes an immediate difference, Jennifer knows the larger battle is against plastic pollution. She’s become a passionate advocate for banning plastic flying rings and educating the public on the dangers of marine debris. “Every piece of plastic left behind could be a death sentence for a seal,” she says. Her campaign has already led several local councils to ban the sale of flying rings, and she’s pushing for national change.
A Mission That Won’t End Until the Ocean Is Safe
Jennifer often jokes that the seals don’t know her name, but she’s certain they recognize her face. To the seals she’s saved, she’s a guardian angel—silent, determined, and always there when they need her most. Her mission continues, one rescue at a time, with the hope that one day, the beaches will be free of the plastic that threatens these beautiful creatures. For Jennifer, this isn’t just a cause—it’s a promise she made to that first struggling seal. And it’s a promise she’ll keep
adventuring, photography and videography. I am currently working towards a BSc in Biodiversity and Ecology at Stellenbosch University to go on to specialise in Marine Sciences one day.
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