The Department for Environment and Water (DEW) has issued a warning to nature enthusiasts to keep away from seals and sea lions following recent sightings.
Senior Ranger for the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) at DEW, Lana Roediger said the Service had received several reports of long-nosed fur seals at Tumby Bay, Port Lincoln and Coffin Bay jetties, and an Australian sea lion was found exploring roads near Farm Beach and Coffin Bay.
Senior Ranger Roediger said the NPWS had also received reports of seal species that rarely visited South Australian shores.
“Sub-Antarctic fur seals have been seen across the Eyre Peninsula, and an Antarctic Leopard seal had hauled out at Fisheries Bay,” she said.
She said Marine Mammal Regulations were in place to protect the animals from disturbance and also to prevent humans from being harmed by sometimes scared and aggressive animals.
Senior Ranger Roediger said people were requested not to approach the animals and admire them from a safe distance of 30 metres where possible.
She said if viewing marine mammals from a boat, vessels must not approach within 50 metres or anchor within 150m of a seal or sea lion.
“When seals and sea lions come ashore it is important to understand that they are tired and are there to rest,” she said.
“These animals spend many hours foraging for food out at sea and expend a lot of energy, leaving them exhausted.
“If you see them on a beach, please respect them and keep a safe distance to keep both yourself and the animal safe.”
Senior Ranger Roediger said if people came across a marine mammal that appeared to be unwell, distressed, stranded or disturbed they should phone the Duty Officer at NPWS on 8688 3223.
