Is this guy fur real or just lost?
THE wonders of Woorim beach intensified last weekend as fishermen were shocked to find a New Zealand fur seal enjoying the Bribie waters.
Bribie resident Brett Rogers spotted the seal far from home swimming behind a small surf break on Saturday morning.
"The seal was not in any hurry, it was quite playful rolling on its back and clapping flippers together," he said.
"It later decided to head onto the beach and rest up for a while, when we returned it was still sunning itself until it was spooked by a four-wheel drive and took off."
Bribie Weekly also received reports from people out fishing who had seen the seal later that day.
"It looked like a burnt stump on the waters edge, I've been fishing this beach for over 15 years and have never seen a seal before," one fan said.
Seaworld's curator of mammals and birds Mitchell Leroy said while it was not uncommon for NZ fur seals to make their way down the southern coast line of Australia, it was unusual for them to appear on Bribie.
"At this time of year we quite often see anywhere near 2-12 seals end up along the coast," Mr Leroy said.
"We are watching eight or so at the moment from Redcliffe to NSW."
Mr Leroy said the Bribie visitor looked similar to one that was discovered on Moreton a while ago.
"It looks like a male, but it's hard to tell. I would say he is chasing food," he said.
He warned spectators to not get too close due to the nasty bite seals can deliver.
"Humans should not interact with them whatsoever, they can bite really hard," he said.
"Do not feed them either, just watch and enjoy them from a distance."
To report sick, injured or orphaned wildlife, marine animal strikes or marine animal strandings, phone RSPCA Qld on 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625).
