The Seals of Sydney & The Luck Of Seeing One

Sydney, a bustling metropolis known for its iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge, is also home to a thriving population of seals. These marine mammals have become an integral part of the city’s coastal ecosystem, charming residents and tourists alike with their playful antics and dog-like faces.

Sydney’s seals are primarily visitors from Montague Island, a landmass off Narooma on the far south coast of New South Wales. This island hosts the northernmost breeding colony of Australian fur seals, long-nose (or New Zealand) fur seals, and sea lions. Over recent decades, there has been a ten-fold increase in fur seal populations, leading to a more prominent presence in Sydney’s harbour and beaches.

One of the most famous seals in Sydney is Benny, the long-nosed fur seal. Benny first made headlines in 2014 when he hauled himself onto the VIP steps of the Sydney Opera House. Since then, he has returned every winter, becoming an international sensation and a symbol of the seals’ reclamation of Port Jackson.

For those interested in getting a closer look at these marine creatures, there are opportunities to dive with Sydney’s playful seal colony. Divers can witness the seals’ impressive underwater acrobatics and interact with young seals who are often the most entertaining. In addition to seals, divers might also encounter weedy seadragons, wobbegong, Port Jackson sharks, crested horn sharks, old wives, yellowtail, and kingfish.

The increasing presence of seals in Sydney’s waters is a testament to the adaptability of both the seals and the city’s residents. As Sydney wildlife scientist Dr. Vanessa Pirotta puts it, “It’s one of the busiest harbours in the world, but these fur seals are here and becoming more prominent. We’re coexisting.” This makes Sydney pretty cool.

What are your thoughts on the seals of Sydney & the Wildlife? Have you had any memorable encounters with these marine mammals or do you want to see them when you visit Sydney? Share your experiences and join the discussion using the hashtags #SealsOfSydney, #MarineLife, and #SydneyWildlife.