Sub-Antarctic fur seal rescued from bluff

A SUB-ANTARCTIC fur seal that made its way to the Barwon Bluff last week required a team effort to get back in the water.

The marine animal was originally spotted by a member of the public, who reached out to Barwon Coast for help.

Barwon Coast contacted Melbourne Zoo’s Marine Response Unit, who attended and were able to safely catch the seal.

As part of the rescue, the team removed a rope caught around the seal’s neck and found a shallow wound, determining it was well enough to be released and recover naturally.

Barwon Coast committee of management chair Sandy Gatehouse said the rescue was a great example of how people care for the coast.

“Thanks to the quick actions of a community member and Barwon Coast staff, and the timely and thorough expertise of the Marine Response Unit, this seal has a second chance to heal in its natural environment.

“At Barwon Coast, we’re proud to play a role in protecting the health and resilience of our coastal environment and all who call it home.”

If people come across seals on land, they are reminded to not approach within 30m and dogs cannot approach within 50m.

Seals are often found on land when they are resting or to moult, however there are several indications the animal may be in distress, including becoming entangled.

For more information on how to identify a seal in distress, head to wildlife.vic.gov.au