Elephant seal suns itself on Portland canal shores

Portland locals have been surprised to discover an elephant seal sunning itself on the shores of the local canal.

An elephant seal has been spotted in the Portland Canal. Picture: Philip Mahon.

We’ve all become lost on the way home – but Portland is particularly out of the way for this enormous sea creature.

Photographed by Philip Mahon, an elephant seal — distinguishable by its trunk-like snout — was spotted on the shores of the Portland canal.

Elephant seals’ natural habitats range from the warm waters off California through to the freezing waters of the Antarctic — neither of which mimic the environment and water temperatures in Victoria.

The marine response unit from Zoos Victoria is aware of the seal and is ready to intervene if it is in danger. For now, though, locals have been assured it is not sick and knows how to leave the harbour.

People have been warned not to go within 30m of the seal and not feed it.

Pet owners should ensure dogs stay at least 50m away.