Sardines hit KZN shores

2009-07-27 16:00

Durban - The elusive sardines have finally arrived in KwaZulu-Natal almost two months after local and international tourists were expecting them.

Natal Sharks Board’s Mike Anderson-Reade said: "There were reports early on Monday of quite intense activity off Greenpoint and Scottburgh and south of Mtwalumi down to Hibberdene, again most of it off the backline". 

There had been doubts that sardines would hit KwaZulu-Natal shores as they normally arrived between June and July.

The shark safety nets were even put back last week, almost two months after they were removed to allow the spectacular annual sardine run that is usually accompanied by sharks and dolphins.

Diving gannets

Anderson-Reade said they had noticed intense sardine activity from Hibberdene to south of Port Shepstone off Mbango while flying along the coast on Sunday.

Most of the activity was off the backline and was intense with diving gannets and some sardines, he said.

“So things are looking up. There are netters waiting at Scottburgh but there is a one-and-a-half metre swell so I doubt they will be able to net this morning (on Monday). Once the tide drops things may improve.”

Anderson-Reade stressed that they were not huge shoals but “bits and pieces”.

He said shark safety nets had been removed from selected beaches between Isipingo and Umtentweni.

“Beach users are advised to liaise with local lifeguards on bathing status".

- SAPA