Baby fur seal spotted frolicking on Coffs beach as humans remain in lockdown

The video from Coffs Lifeguards has been met with delight but after a number of seal sightings in Coffs, locals are being urged to stay away.

While humans remain hunkered down in their homes for at least another week, it appears some of the sea’s cutest critters are taking advantage of the Coffs Coast’s relatively quiet beaches.

In a video sure to lift your mood while in lockdown, Coffs Harbour Lifeguards have shared footage of a visiting New Zealand fur seal pup frolicking unperturbed in the sand.

The adorable video was met with delight by social media users, but one important question remained unanswered: “Has he had a Covid test?” Shane Swadling asked.

Coffs Harbour Lifeguards have shared an adorable video of a New Zealand fur seal pup frolicking on a Coffs Coast beach, as humans remain in lockdown. (Still take from Coffs Harbour Lifeguards Facebook page)

Lifeguards however shared the video as a warning to locals to keep clear, revealing the pup was just one of a number of NZ fur seals that have made their way onshore in Coffs Harbour recently.

While an influx of NZ seals might sound intriguing, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) said the furry creatures are not actually an uncommon occurrence in Coffs at this time of year.

The seals are usually found in NZ and southern parts of Australia, and are also spotted on the NSW coast and in isolated locations north of Sydney. They are listed as a vulnerable species in NSW.

A NPWS spokesperson told The Advocate the seals haul out at this time of year, usually to rest.

New Zealand fur seals normally haul out along the NSW coast at this time of the year to rest, according to NPWS. Pic: Megan Slade.

“The vast majority of seals lying on rock shelves or beaches are just resting or digesting a belly full of fish,” they said.

And while they may appear cute and harmless, they have sharp teeth and move fast. People are advised to give seals plenty of space including a distance of at least 40m from adults and 80m if there is also a pup present.

“They may look fairly docile but seals can move very quickly on land, have sharp teeth and may bite if frightened or provoked.

“Please don’t approach a seal that has hauled out for any reason.”

The beaches where the seals have been spotted have not been disclosed in order to prevent people from approaching them.

NPWS is urging anyone who sees a seal injured or in distress to give the animal plenty of space and call them on 13000 PARKS or ORRCA on 9415 3333.