The Department of Conservation has called on drivers to be vigilant after a native pakake pup was found dead on Hoopers Inlet Road in Dunedin.
The 5-month-old pup was discovered in a ditch with signs of blunt force trauma, which DOC Coastal Otago biodiversity ranger Moss Thompson said was caused by a vehicle.
“Given the location, the type of injury, and the presence of some car undercarriage on the road, we are confident this death was a result from a vehicle collision.”
It was the second sea lion pup to be killed this month, with another having been struck last week.
Hoopers Inlet was known for its pakake presence, as they used the area during the cooler months to raise their young.
Fencing, reduced speeds and signage have already been installed along the road to protect the pakake pups, however it was still not enough.
“Otago is one of the only places where pakake are increasing in numbers, with the main populations in the New Zealand subantarctic facing serious declines. Everyone has a part to play in supporting this iconic taoka species’ return to the mainland. Keeping a cautious eye out when driving in coastal areas is something we can all do,” says Thompson.
DOC urged motorists to report any sea lion incidents if or when they happened to the NZ Police or Department of Conservation.
“If you accidentally, or incidentally, harm a sea lion, or other marine mammal, you are legally required to report it.
“If you hit, or think you hit a sea lion, please report it as soon as possible by calling 0800DOCHOT.”
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