Seals, photos of

[xenith]

Seals, specifically the Australian Fur seals (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) at Melbourne Zoo


This is Gordo, the only boy. The webpage says he was "found starving on a Warrnambool beach as a young pup" and was "named after the keeper who nursed him back to health".



The voiceover guy told us the main reason for these shows is to give the keepers a chance to check the health of the seal. I assume, as they're smart animals, another major reason for the the shows is to provide the seals with entertainment and mental stimulation.


Also to promote the Zoo's "Seal the Loop" programme, which is attempting to reduce the amount of fishing waste (e.g nets) that gets into the water and kills the marine wildlife.



Everyone raised their left hand (or flipper) and pledged to do their bit to help.



This was one of the first tricks, so everyone watching went "Oooh!"


But it was even more impressive when he started walking on his "hands".

Because I was trying to take decent photos (you know, focused & centred & stuff) I kept missing the interesting bits so I gave in, put the camera on Continous and held down the button. That way, I ended up with photos that were of more interest to me, like the ins and outs.


Like these two: off the rocks--


--and into the water. They're consecutive photos.


So are these two. Just up--


--and onto the rocks. Who needs to climb?




I went back later, when I was supposed to be watching the penguin feeding, to get some photos of the seals swimming.


Not much happening outside though because mostly they were underwater at this time.


There's a big underwater display window that they swim up to and turn in front of. (Who is entertaining who?)

Fur seals like to swim upside down?