Sea lions are thriving around Dunedin after disappearing from mainland New Zealand for many years. The animals are now regularly seen along the Otago coast, where they swim, rest and raise their pups. Last season, 38 sea lion pups were born in the area.
Sea lions were once driven away from the mainland by hunting and other human activities. In 1993, a farmer near Taieri Mouth discovered a female sea lion nursing a pup. Department of Conservation rangers believed the pup was one of the first sea lions born on mainland New Zealand in more than 150 years.
Today, sea lions can be spotted in surprising places, including gardens, golf courses and near fish and chip shops. Photographer Derek Morrison says they can seem intimidating because they are large animals with big teeth, but he soon discovered that they are playful and full of energy. Some sea lions have even tried to visit places where people gather.
One sea lion named Tui became interested in children at the Brighton Surf Life Saving Club and tried to get closer when she heard them playing. Another sea lion had a pup near the ninth hole at Chisholm Park golf course. Sea lions are now protected in New Zealand, helping the Dunedin population continue to grow.
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