Call for space for leopard seal in Havelock

Friday, 10 December 2021

Leopard seals are a protected species mostly found in sub-Arctic and Antarctic waters. (File photo)

People are asked to give a leopard seal visiting Havelock in Marlborough a wide berth.

The leopard seal has become something of a regular visitor to the Havelock Marina in the last few weeks, and has been spotted there again on Friday.

Department of Conservation (DOC) Sounds operations manager Dave Hayes said people need to stay at least 20 metres away from the seal to avoid startling it.

“Leopard seals are wild animals and will defend themselves if they feel threatened.”

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An agitated seal could become aggressive and could lunge powerfully and quickly, Hayes said.

“Although the large size of leopard seals can make them appear slow, they can in fact move surprisingly quickly on land and even faster in the water.

“Their strong jaws can inflict serious injury.”

The leopard seal had a gash on its forehead. Hayes said it was not possible to treat this, given the seal could be aggressive, and it was hoped the wound would heal naturally.

Leopard seals were a protected species, mostly found in sub-Arctic and Antarctic areas. They were sometimes seen around New Zealand including the top of the south.

A leopard seal once took up residence on Marlborough’s east coast back in 2017, with several sightings believed to be the same animal. However, sightings on Marlborough’s coastlines were fairly rare.

“Leopard seals aren’t often seen here, but when they visit they should be respected and observed from a safe distance,” Hayes said.

If a leopard seal was basking on the beach or swimming in the sea, people should just leave it be, but if it was in a situation that posed a threat to the public or was at risk, people should contact DOC on the 24-hour emergency number, 0800 DOCHOT (0800 36 24 68).