New Zealand Sea Lions can be found along the coasts of the southern part of the South Island. Here are 10 facts about these native marine mammals.
Prior to the arrival of people to these amazing islands, there were many types of large animals such as moa, haast eagles, and even lots of sea lions. Unfortunately, as in many places throughout the world, most of the large animals were wiped out shortly after the arrival of people. Sea lions then only survived on some subantarctic islands over 400 kms south of New Zealand. However, the story for these animals has taken a new turn as they are beginning to come back to and breed on the main islands.
Personally, I was blown away at seeing these animals in the wild while exploring the Catlins, Dunedin, and Stewart Island. I saw some on sandy beaches, had some follow us in the water as we walked, and even stumbled upon a couple in the grass. It reminded me of the feeling of walking in bear country – always a bit nervous and excited about what lay around the next bend or may be hidden in the grass.
10 New Zealand Sea Lion Facts
These large marine mammals are sexually dimorphic (males and female differ in appearance). Males are 350 to 500 kg and females are 100 – 160 kgs! Females are a lighter colour – creamy grey. Males are a darker brown to black.
Similar to many native animals of New Zealand, sea lions have been seriously impacted by people. Prior to people these marine mammals used to have their pups all over the country. However, they were hunted by both Maori and Europeans through the early 1800s before they were protected.
The total population of New Zealand sea lions is relatively small, making them an endangered species and one of the rarer sea lions in the world. There are approximately 12,000 animals living in the subantarctic islands as well as the southern part of the South Island and on Stewart Island. Their population seems to be shrinking, the causes of which are debatable.
Seals and sea lions are similar looking native marine mammals, but there are some notable differences. Sea lions tend to be much larger, can often be seen on sandy beaches, and also are simply not as common.
Are they dangerous? Well, they are wild animals and it’s impossible to predict what they will do. However, in general they don’t attack or harm people. If people pester them or don’t respect them, then yes they may respond and do something. There was a great article in New Zealand Geographic that showed they swimming in the ocean amongst surfers.
These animals are very social and curious. Rather than keep away from people they will often follow them as happened to me a few times. I do have to say it is a bit nerve wracking to have this large animal following you if you’re not used to them.
Sea lions eat a variety of fish, octopus, squid, and crustaceans. They forage for food by diving underwater, usually in deeper water, but they also eat at the surface. They dive from 50 to 130 meters deep and stay under water for a long time, from 4 to 14 minutes!
Females form harems with a single, dominant male bull. Other males hang out in the area and will challenge him for the right to breed with the females.
Sea lions breed during the summer months. The females give birth to a single pup every 1 – 2 years, which are born on the sandy beach. Then at about 6 weeks old, the pups are taken by the mothers into nearby vegetation where they are raised for up to a year. The mothers will leave to forage at sea and return to nurse their pups.
New Zealand sea lions have been protected by law in one form or another since 1893. Currently, they are protected under the Marine Mammals Protection Act of 1978.