PHOTOGRAPHY
South Australian Seals
South Australia's coast is home to a diverse range of seal species, from the playful Australian sea lions to the majestic New Zealand fur seals. I hope my photographs will inspire you to appreciate and protect these amazing animals and their fragile coastal habitats.
South Australia is home to several species of seals, including Australian sea lions, New Zealand fur seals, and long-nosed fur seals.
Australian sea lions, also known as the "puppies of the sea," are the rarest sea lion species in the world and can only be found in Australia. New Zealand fur seals, on the other hand, are a more common sight in South Australia and can be found basking on rocks or swimming in the ocean.
Australian sea lions are one of the few species of seals that breed exclusively in Australia, with over 80% of the population residing in the waters of South Australia. Their population is still considered endangered due to a decline in their numbers over the past few decades.
New Zealand fur seals, on the other hand, are classified as a least concern species and can be found in large numbers in South Australia. They are known for their distinctive fur, which can range in colour from light brown to almost black, and for their long whiskers. Male fur seals are also known for their impressive size, with some reaching over 2 meters in length and weighing over 200 kg.
Long-nosed fur seals are another species that can be found in South Australia, although they are less common than Australian sea lions and New Zealand fur seals. They are known for their long snouts, which are used to catch fish and squid, and for their unique vocalizations. Unlike Australian sea lions and New Zealand fur seals, long-nosed fur seals are not known to breed in South Australia and instead migrate there for feeding.
One rare sight in South Australia is the presence of leopard seals, which are typically found in the Antarctic and sub-Antarctic regions. However, there have been a few reported sightings of leopard seals in South Australia over the years, likely due to changes in ocean currents and temperatures. These large and aggressive predators are a reminder of the diverse and unpredictable nature of the marine wildlife found in South Australia.