[ad_1]
Cameron Hunt / DOC / Supplied
A female leopard seal, which is seen infrequently on the North Island, has been sighted several times along the Taranaki coast.
A leopard seal, not commonly seen on the North Island, has been sighted several times along the Taranaki coast, says the Department of Conservation.
In a statement, Taranaki Marine Ranger Cameron Hunt said the 6-foot-tall woman was first reported to DOC last week and was subsequently seen at various locations.
“Our key message to the public is to stay away from her: give her at least 20 meters of space, keep dogs on a leash, and make sure children are at a safe distance and understand that she should be left alone,” Hunt said.
“The leopard seal looks a little thin, but is otherwise healthy and not injured.
READ MORE:
* The investigation into the shooting of the leopard seal Owha is closed without the culprit being identified
* Leopard seal catches some rays on Opunake Beach
“We think she is probably quite depleted from the winter and has come ashore to rest and feed.”
Leopard seal sightings around the North Island are rare, and while Taranaki’s arrival seems a bit worse from wear and tear, Hunt cautioned that the species has a nasty bite.
“Although rare, there are some records of adult leopard seals attacking humans.”
“If agitated, humans or dogs will come second in a close encounter.”
The DOC has already responded to questions and comments from members of the public, including questions about whether the animal is stranded or whether, like whales or dolphins, it needs to stay wet.
“The answer to both questions is ‘no,'” Hunt said. “Also, people don’t need to feed it, they shouldn’t try to touch it, and they should make sure there is a clear path between the seal and the water so that it can leave if it wants to.”
Leopard seals are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1978 and are classified as “naturally rare”.
“This female leopard seal may well be the first of many marine mammals to land in the coming months, and we want the public and animals to be safe to avoid any incidents. Our advice is to observe them from a distance and enjoy the experience ”.
