A member of the public found and reported a distressed seal pup around Stockyards Beach late last month.
Weekender understands it was humanely euthanised.
A Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions spokesperson said they received a number of reports of seals sighted along our coastline this time of year. “DBCA advises the public to be ‘Be Seal Wise’ and avoid approaching seals on beaches or in the water,” she said.
“The best course of action is to observe from a distance and report sightings to the Wildcare Helpline on (08) 9474 9055 or their local DBCA office if there are concerns.”
According to the Department’s website, it is important to note that seals naturally “haul out” or come onto land to rest, moult and recuperate.
“Seal pups die from natural causes each year,” the website says.
“More than 10 per cent die in the first two months, and more seals die when learning to hunt, from sickness and old age.
“In these cases, it’s best not to intervene and instead, and let nature take its course.”
More information is available at dbca.wa.gov.au/wildlife-and-ecosystems/marine/be-seal-wise .
