Young fur seal pup takes a pit-stop

Cleaning oneself is such hard work for this furry little critter who took a relaxed pit-stop at the Bridge Marina yesterday.

The young fur seal pup is one of many seen on Western Bay of Plenty shores lately. It was common for seals to come ashore between July and October to rest, particularly so for young seal pups which have been weaned and are learning to make their own way in the world.

The Department of Conservation reminds people to avoid getting nearer than 20m from seals and to observe them quietly because they can defend their territory aggressively and their teeth can inflict serious injury.