Illanga

Sex: Female

History: Illanga means “Sun” in Zulu, named after one of the elements where she was found on the West Coast of South Africa. She was rescued from Kleinseë on 24 July 1998 when fish stocks reached an all time low. She weighed 8kg on arrival at uShaka Sea World and now weighs over 60kg.

Character: She is fearless and confident, learns quickly, creative and seems to have a sense of humour.

Activities: She enjoys playing with water hoses and is often seen holding the hose for other seals. She also enjoys chasing birds and resident cats and splashing unsuspecting trainers with water.

Fact: Seals obtain all the fresh water they need from the fish they eat. When swallowing they take in virtually no sea water, which has little or no effect on them.