Photo: Supplied/N Bezermer
Seal and sea lion populations are making a comeback around the country, with many returning to their historic home of New Zealand's mainlands.
It's also seal silly season, meaning young pups are venturing off on their own for the very first time.
They could show up on roads, be chilling in paddocks and even have a wander around Bunnings.
But as seal silly season hits and the populations grow, so do our encounters.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency have now launched a nation-wide project to track the seals appearing near roads and are asking the public for help.
"We're asking people to report sightings of seals, fur seals or sea lions on or near roads," marine senior technical advisor for the Department of Conservation Jody Weir said.
"Your sightings-date, location, even a photo if it's safe- will help us map hotspots and understand the risks. It's a great example of how citizen science could make a real difference."
Sightings reported to DOC before 22 June will help shape the initial national road risk model. Photo: Supplied/N Bezermer
The project aims to analyse the road-related risks for marine mammals like seals, and its findings will help with road planning and improvements, and help to find high-risk zones.
"We're thrilled to see populations recovering, but that success comes with new challenges," Weir said.
"We want to protect these taonga species while also keeping people safe. That means understanding where the key hot spots are and planning smarter."
Kaikōura is a prime success story with key hot spots - where fur seals were getting onto SH1 - found, resulting in infrastructure upgrades to help protect the animals and drivers.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency have launched a nation-wide project to track the seals appearing near roads. Photo: Supplied/N Bezermer
"These young fur seals are out exploring their wider world while their mums are busy at sea getting food to be able to nurse that rapidly growing pup and grow the developing foetus inside her.
"It's an important stage of development, but it also means they can end up in unusual-and sometimes risky-places. By reporting sightings, you're helping us look out for them during this vulnerable time," Weir said.
Top seal tips
- Never touch, handle, or feed a seal, because they can be aggressive if they feel threatened. It's also a breach of the Marine Mammals Protection Act.
- Maintain a distance of at least 20 metres from a seal if possible and avoid getting between the seal and the sea.
- Give seals space if encountered on or near a beach.
- Always keep dogs on a leash and away from seals.
- Ensure small children are at a safe distance and under control when watching seals.
- If you see a seal that's badly injured, being harassed or in danger, call 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).
Sightings reported to [seeaseal@doc.govt.nz DOC] before 22 June will help shape the initial national road risk model.
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