You can help sea lion
Take care when in the vicinity of sea lions. Although very charismatic, they are wild animals and should be treated with respect. In general seals and sealions should be enjoyed from a distance without interference. Below are some simple guidelines that should be followed when watching sea lions so as not to compromise your safety or that of the animals.
Hooker's sea lion female and pup,
Enderby Island
Rules for observing sea lions
- Observe the sea lion quietly
- Always keep dogs and small children well away from sea lions
- Avoid getting nearer than 20 metres to the sea lion
- Do not touch the sea lion under any circumstances
- Do not feed the sea lion
Sea lions are generally quite confident around people. Their responses to people vary; they may completely ignore you if they are resting, or during more active periods they may chase people and dogs that approach too closely.
Sea lions are often perceived to be quite playful in the water. This 'play' can sometimes become boisterous, and people diving or swimming in the vicinity of sea lions should be wary and be prepared to move away.
Contacting DOC about sea lions
If you see an animal that is sick, injured, dead or being harassed then do not attempt to assist yourself but please contact DOC immediately on 0800 DOC HOTline (0800 362 468). You may be asked to give a phone number so as you can be contacted if the animal cannot be found or to stay until help arrives. Useful information to report includes:
- Where the animal is
- What species it is/description
- What size it is
- What seems to be wrong
- The state of the tide and the local weather/sea conditions
In some cases a healthy sea lion may look sick. One reason could be that moisture around their eyes (attracting flies) may give the appearance of tears. Also, it is normal for sea lions to vomit to get rid of undigested food, such as fish bone fragments. It is not necessary to call the department if you observe either of the above.
It is helpful to report any sightings of seals or sealions as this can increase our knowledge of their distribution and movements around New Zealand. Calls can be made to the 0800 DOC HOTline (0800 362 468). If possible please make note of the following information:
- Species
- Location
- Number of individuals
- Estimated sizes
- Presence of pups
- What they are doing
- The shape, colour and location of any body tags and the tag number
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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