What is a haul-out?
A haul-out occurs when seals temporarily leave the water to rest or reproduce. We’re interested in understanding where Australian and New Zealand fur seals are hauling out along the NSW coastline.
How you can help
As a citizen scientist, your participation in the survey to identify key hotspot locations for these fur seals is crucial. Here’s why:
- Conservation efforts: Australian fur seals are listed as vulnerable under the Biodiversity Conservation Act. By getting involved, you directly contribute to safeguarding their habitats and populations.
- Data collection: your sightings will complement drone surveys along the NSW coastline. This data provides insights into fur seal population densities and their preferred breeding habitats, informing marine conservation initiatives in New South Wales.
- Long-term survival: understanding fur seals’ health and breeding behaviours is critical. Your reports help researchers develop targeted conservation measures to support their populations.
- Mitigating conflicts: by understanding their habitat preferences and behaviours, we can reduce disturbances and minimise negative interactions between humans and seals, promoting coexistence in shared environments.
Your role matters. As a citizen scientist, your contributions directly protect and conserve Australian and New Zealand fur seals and their marine habitats. Join us in making a difference for these vulnerable species and the marine ecosystems they inhabit.
If you have any questions or feedback about this platform, please email [email protected].
Like any wild animal, seals can be sensitive to its surroundings and may become uneasy if approached too closely. It might retreat quickly or nip in self-defence if it feels uncomfortable or agitated. In rare cases, a bite could cause injury and potential infection.
It is illegal to offer seals food, as it can disrupt their natural behaviour and potentially lead to them becoming overly accustomed to humans, which is not healthy for them or us.
Disturbing a resting seal is a significant threat to its survival, especially for individuals engaging in risky behaviour like trying to get closer for a photo or selfie.
The following 'approach distances' explained in this video come under the Biodiversity Conservation Act and is an offence if not followed.
If you come across injured or sick marine wildlife, please call 13000PARKS (1300 072 757).
Australian fur seal