'Leave resting seals alone': DPaW

Seals found resting on beaches should be left alone, a Department of Parks and Wildlife officer warned last week.

Following recent storm fronts seals could come ashore to rest or may be seen spinning and turning in the water to maintain their body temperature.

Wildlife officer Cameron Craigie said seals resting on beaches were in most cases not stranded.

Dolphin Discovery Centre marine biologist Phil Coulthard said most years one or two seals would use Koombana Bay beach to rest on. He warned people to stay away from them and to report them to the Wildcare Helpline.

He advised beach walkers to steer clear of them and keep their dogs away from the animals.

Most seals spotted on beaches in the area were juvenile or sub-adult leopard, sub-Antarctic fur and New Zealand fur seals.

If people see a seal that has injuries or is in distress report it to the Department’s Wildcare Helpline on 9474 9055.

For more news on the go check out our mobile home page at iNFOGO