DOC's work with elephant seal
Elephant seal pup, Antipodes Island
Elephant seals are protected under the Wildlife Act 1953 and the Marine Mammal Protection Act 1978.
DOC is currently creating a database to record sightings of elephant seals. This is to help work out the present distribution and range of the species.
We're also working with researchers from other countries to gather information on the number of seal pups produced each year and to work out what elephant seals eat in the New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands.
Contacts
If you find a seal that is severely injured, or entangled in marine debris, or being harassed by people or dogs call the DOC HOTline 0800 362 468
For other enquiries, contact your nearest DOC office