Australian Fur Seal

Scientific Name: Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus
Wadarurrung Name: kurrman

Description: Australian Fur Seals are easily recognised by their thick fur coats, pointed faces with long whiskers, and powerful front flippers on which they can stand. The hind fins are used mainly for steering in the water although can also be turned and used for walking on land.

Seals are active carnivores and feed on a wide variety of species including fish, cephalopods such as squid and octopus, as well as crustaceans including crabs and rock lobsters. They were previously killed for their skins and nearly brought to extinction but are now fully protected.

Australian Fur Seals occasionally haul out at the Bluff or on local beaches and when present should be given plenty of space from people and dogs to rest.

Type: Mammal
Where to find: Open Water, Intertidal Reef
Size: 2m