An otter sculpture by Chip Snaddon, crafted from alien invasive plants, now stands watch over the Lower Silvermine Wetlands
Image: Supplied
A new sculpture of a Cape clawless otter was unveiled at the Lower Silvermine Wetlands, drawing more than 50 community members of all ages to the event.
The otter, created by local artist Chip Snaddon using invasive alien plant materials, now stands as a guardian of the wetlands.
The unveiling took place on Friday May 9, with a crowd gathering in excitement as the sculpture was revealed — many seeing it for the first time.
City of Cape Town Speaker Felicity Purchase, joined by ward councillor Izabel Sherry as representatives of the City, said: “He is warning you that this is his home — here, as a guardian of the wetlands."
She also paid tribute to long-time environmental activist Kim Kruyshaar for her decades of work in the Far South.
Ward councillor Izabel Sherry, City of Cape Town Speaker Felicity Purchase, Fosna chairman Dave Balfour and Friends of Silvermine Nature Area (Fosna) committee member Martin Scholtz.
Image: Supplied
Also in attendance were Terry and Evanne Rothwell, who previously played a key role in the past custodianship of the wetlands, along with Daan Jacobs and Enoch Moyana, who continue to support the area through litter collection and clearing alien vegetation.
Mr Snaddon said he was pleased with the turnout and grateful to see people already visiting the sculpture over the weekend. “I hope it continues to delight people who encounter it in the wetland and helps build a stronger connection between the community and nature,” he said.
Artist Chip Snaddon shares insights about his Cape clawless otter sculpture at the Lower Silvermine Wetlands.
Image: Supplied
The sculpture was commissioned by the Friends of Silvermine Nature Area (FOSNA), with committee member Martin Scholtz saying the aim was to promote awareness and appreciation of the wetland.
“Public art like this helps people feel more invested in the places they love,” he said.
Mr Scholtz explained that the otter was chosen for its symbolism — joy, playfulness, and resilience — and said its presence serves as a reminder of the community’s role in caring for the fragile wetland ecosystem.
He added that a young live otter was even spotted near the dam after the unveiling — a hopeful sign for the health of the area.