An incident involving a seal pup on a beach in Victoria has prompted an investigation by local Conservation authorities. The juvenile sub-Antarctic fur seal was discovered critically injured on Lake Bunga Beach, located near Lakes Entrance, on September 17. Sadly, the seal was euthanized shortly after being found due to the severity of its injuries.
According to Crime Stoppers Victoria, a member of the public first spotted the seal around 8 a.m. that day. Initially, the animal appeared to be resting peacefully, and the sighting was reported to the marine response unit at Zoos Victoria. The unit documented the information and began monitoring the pup.
However, upon returning to the beach later that evening, around 6 p.m., the witness found a much graver situation. The seal had developed facial wounds and suffered serious injuries to its back. Surrounding the animal were numerous footprints, both human and canine, which raised suspicions.
Additionally, a large stick was found next to the seal that had not been there earlier in the day. A veterinarian later assessed the seal and identified significant injuries, including a spinal fracture and multiple broken ribs. Regrettably, due to the extent of these injuries, the decision was made to euthanize the seal.
In response to the incident, experts from the Melbourne Zoo are set to perform a necropsy on the seal to investigate the injuries that ultimately led to its death.
Victorian law imposes strict regulations regarding interactions with seals. It is illegal to harm, disturb, or approach within 30 meters of a seal on land, with penalties reaching up to $49,397 or a year in prison under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986.
Furthermore, pet owners may face additional fines of up to $4,939 if their dogs chase, attack, or injure wildlife. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward as the investigation continues.
This article by Trinity Sparke was first published by One Green Planet on 3 October 2024. Image Credit :DenisaPro/Shutterstock.
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