New Zealand fur seals need space
Archived content: This media release was accurate on the date of publication.
Introduction
DOC advises people concerned about seals that, unless a seal is at danger from being attacked by a dog, the best policy is to leave them be.Date: 03 August 2010
New Zealand fur seals are making frequent appearances along the Northland coast, as weaned pups ‘find their flippers’.
NZ fur seal
The Department of Conservation has received increased calls from people concerned about seals, especially pups. However Kaitaia’s Biodiversity Ranger, Lester Bridson advises that, unless a seal is at danger from being attacked by a dog, the best policy is to leave them be.
Mr Bridson says fur seals can appear sick, as their eyes are often weepy, and they may seem lethargic, with poor fur condition. However, this is quite normal.
“They may have been at sea for a while, or could be moulting, so appear to be in poor condition. However, seals have amazing healing properties. Even when they have sustained nasty cuts, they recover quickly,” Mr Bridson explains.
NZ fur seal resting on rocks
And anyone concerned that seals may be stranded or stuck up a bank can rest assured. Mr Bridson says they may appear cumbersome on land, but they are actually surprisingly agile.
“Seals come ashore to rest, and are often spotted basking in the sun on the rocks. They can climb banks and rocky cliffs, and can travel very quickly across the ground, especially if they feel threatened,” explains Mr Bridson.
New Zealand fur seals, or kekeno, are extremely cute, with their rich, chocolate-coloured fur coats and large liquid brown eyes. But they can become aggressive if they feel threatened, and are also carriers of disease that can be transferred to humans.
Mr Bridson advises watching them from a distance and respecting their personal space.
“Although generally quite docile, if they feel under threat, fur seals can become aggressive, especially when people come between them and the sea. So keep a respectful space between you and them, and don’t touch them, as you can pick up diseases from seals,” warns Mr Bridson.
NZ fur seal close up
With their valuable and attractive pelts, and as a rich source of protein, New Zealand fur seals were once hunted to near extinction, first by Māori and then later by European sealers. In 1894, they were made fully protected under the law. It is an offence to interfere or harm them in any way.
Since becoming protected, the number of New Zealand fur seals has steadily increased and is now at 15% of what it would have originally been before human contact.
New Zealand fur seals are no longer considered to be in decline, and are not actively managed by the Department of Conservation. The Department maintains a ‘hands off’ policy regarding New Zealand fur seals, unless the seals are under direct threat from dogs.
If you consider a seal to be under direct threat from a dog, please contact the Department of Conservation on 0800DOCHOT (0800 362 468).