Keep vulnerable seals safe

15th September

The Department of Conservation (DOC) is noticing higher than normal numbers of skinny and emaciated NZ fur seals/kekeno along the east coast of New Zealand.

DOC marine advisor Laura Boren says DOC staff have received an increased number of fur seal call outs over the winter, mainly about sick or dead fur seals, and have noticed increased pup mortality at some breeding colonies, such as in Kaikoura and Otago.

“It is highly likely this is a result of reduced productivity and prey availability, which could be related to a number of factors,” Laura says. Necropsies will be carried out on a selection of pups to confirm the cause of death.

The department is currently gathering information to understand the extent of the situation and will continue to monitor it.

“It’s usual at this time of the year for newly weaned young fur seal pups, aged nine or ten months, to start showing up on our beaches. They’re just learning to make it on their own and its normal for many to be emaciated and weak,” Laura says.

“Unless a seal is being harassed by dogs or people, is entangled in marine debris, is severely injured, or is in a situation where it might pose a risk to itself or to people e.g. on a road or in a backyard, the best policy is to leave them alone.”

“With more in poor condition this year, its important dog owners control their dogs around seals. These weak and helpless seals occasionally turn up in public places where they are vulnerable to dogs. The seals are small and easily picked up and shaken by a dog. Last year several seals were killed by dogs.”

“We remind people it’s an offence under the Marine Mammals Protection Act to disturb, harass, harm, injure or kill a seal. A dog owner whose dog attacks a seal could face prosecution and their dog could be destroyed.”

Anyone charged under the Act with harassing, disturbing, injuring or killing a seal faces a maximum penalty of two years’ imprisonment or a maximum fine of $250,000.

Please report sightings of unusually high numbers of thin or dead seals to the DOC hotline 0800 362 468.

ENDS

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