DOC investigating reported harassment of Petone leopard seal

A lone leopard seal that thrilled crowds at Petone Beach over the weekend may have shuffled back into the ocean, but the Department of Conservation is looking into reports that not everyone was so respectful of the great beast. 

Speaking to rova, DOC’s Hannah Hendriks says anyone found to have engaged in such behaviour could find themselves before the courts.

“Unfortunately, we've had a couple of reports of people disturbing the seal. We've had someone throw a fish at it, and we've had a few people who are letting their off-leash dogs approach the seal. These acts are both offences under the Marine Mammals Protection Regulations, and we are looking for information to follow up on these offences.”

Although the seal itself is unlikely to be too hurt by the fish-throwing incident, it is unfortunate that someone’s first thought when seeing such an amazing creature is to chuck something at it.

Moreover, the laws exist partly for the protection of people and their pets, with some leopard seals weighing in at more than half a tonne, and packing a bite force stronger than a lion. 

As Hendriks explains, they may not take kindly to someone getting too close.

“Leopard seals are apex predators. They have a large set of sharp, pointy teeth. So, if they were disturbed, they could give a nasty bite to both us and people's dogs. 

“These animals are also usually here to rest after a long journey, and so they really need that space to be able to rest properly without having to be on guard and constantly watching out for danger. So, when we or dogs approach them, then they’re really not able to perform that function.”

Hendriks advises those who do find themselves encountering a leopard seal in the wild, to keep their distance.

“We really want people to just give them lots of space so they can rest, and people can also report sightings to the department, along with any instances of people harassing them, or if they are just concerned about their well-being.”

Photo credit: Sam McGee (DOC)