..For New Zealand sea lion/pakake breeding! Sea lion breeding season begins in late November through to February, when adult males return to the mainland and establish themselves on territories through displays, vocalising, and fighting. Adult females return to the same beaches they were born at in early December and give birth on average within two days after returning to the rookery. Females are tactful when it comes to hiding their pups from males and humans; they have been known to hide their pups on golf courses and in forests – and are the only sea lion in the world to do so! New Zealand sea lions/pakake are indigenous and are found in the Otago and Southland Regions. If you are lucky enough to encounter a sea lion at the beach, please keep an approximately 20 metre distance, keep your dog on a leash and walk rather than drive onto the beach, as their time ashore is very important for resting, socialising and caring for their pups.
Image by Jeff Bartels.