A SEAL freed from fishing wire in Frankston is expected to make a full recovery. An Australian Fur Seal was found on Frankston Beach near Oliver’s Hill with fishing hook and line stuck through its snout on 12 November. Melbourne Zoo’s marine response unit soon arrived to remove the fishing line. The seal was released back into its natural habitat.
Melbourne Zoo marine response unit team member Elise Doyle, who co-ordinated the rescue, says the seal will recover quickly in the saltwater. “It was wonderful to see the seal swim off into the bay. This is a positive outcome, but it is a good reminder of the importance of disposing of hooks and lines safely,” Doyle said. “Fishing gear left behind in the environment pose a significant threat to marine animals, including seals, seabirds, and turtles, so make sure you put any fishing gear you use or find in a Seal the Loop bin to help keep animals safe.”
Zoos Victoria works with fishing communities through the Seal the Loop program to promote correct disposal of fishing gear. If incorrectly disposed of, it can cause serious injuries or death for marine animals. Zoos Victoria provides bins at popular fishing locations for anglers to dispose of fishing waste safely.
To learn more about Seal the Loop visit zoo.org.au/seal-the-loop/
First published in the Frankston Times – 26 November 2024