20 October 2010

Leave seals alone to rest on Wellington’s beaches

Seals don’t need our help unless they are severely injured, under threat from people or dogs, or entangled in marine debris, the Department of Conservation is reminding people.

This follows a spate of calls to DOC expressing concern about the welfare of seals on beaches in the Wellington region.

“Coughing, sneezing, regurgitation, weepy eyes and immobility are normal behaviours for seals resting on our beaches at this time of year and they should be left alone, says DOC ranger Lisa Clapcott.

“Seal pups are weaned over winter so it’s not unusual for them to look a bit skinny while they’re learning to fend for themselves,” she said.

“They’re just using the beach as we do - to rest and recuperate.”

DOC’s relationship with seals is based on minimum intervention, Ms Clapcott said.

“Seals are very resilient and can recover from some serious injuries without intervention. But very occasionally we need to euthanase a seal due to animal welfare concerns, as was the case with a severely malnourished seal at Waitarere Beach recently.”

Anyone finding a seal that is severely injured, entangled in marine debris, or being harassed by people or dogs should call the DOC HOTline 0800 362 468.

“Seals should be watched and enjoyed quietly from a safe distance. On no account should people go near seals, keeping at least 20 metres away, and not coming between seals and the sea. Seals have a nasty bite and carry infectious diseases such as pneumonia, tuberculosis and salmonella that can be transmitted to humans and are difficult to treat.” Ms Clapcott said.

It is also important for dog owners to keep their dogs under control and well away from seals. Dogs will stress and potentially harm resting or sick seals and there is also a risk to dogs, as seals may attack if they perceive a threat.

ENDS

Rules for observing seals:

Observe the seal quietly
Always keep dogs and small children well away from seals
Avoid getting nearer than 20 metres to the seal
Do not touch the seal under any circumstances
Do not get between the seal and its access to water
Do not feed the seal

Contact DOC if you find a seal that is:

Severely injured
Entangled in marine debris
Being harassed by people or dogs
Call the DOC HOTline 0800 362 468.
The following is normal behaviour for seals:
regurgitating,
sneezing or coughing
"crying" - these are natural moisture secretions
a young seal spending time away from its mother
drifting in the waves
flapping its flippers in the air as if stranded
immobile
fighting

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