Locals Looking Out

If you have ever had the privilege of witnessing New Zealand sea lions on land or in the ocean, you may have noticed how curious and playful they are, how akin to dogs, their speed on land and their acrobatics in the water. Like us they have marks and scars and are individually recognisable. 

The New Zealand Sea Lion Trust, Department of Conservation and I were notified about an unwell sea lion bull at Stewart Island by local Rakiura; despite the quick action taken, the bull dubbed “Couch” died. The cause is undetermined. Read Johnny Sharplin’s touching account about Couch below. 

"Poor old Couch, he was a good Sea Lion. It's hard to tell Sea Lions apart, but a few of them you can. This big fella was the most chilled out guy I've ever swam with and there has been a few I've been in the water with. 2020 breeding season must have just been a bit too hard with a few too many battles. RIP old Couch."