Ruben weighed 7kg when he was found. Photo: Mana Stratton/DOC
A young, emaciated Subantarctic fur seal found on a walkway in Ruby Bay, near Nelson is being rehabilitated so he can be released back into the sea.
The seal, named Ruben after where he was spotted, weighed 7kg when he was found by members of the public more than a month ago.
His weight has almost doubled under the care of vet Mana Stratton, who is feeding him southern blue whiting.
"Ruben is progressing well, which means he is displaying more and more of his normal behaviour and self-protection instincts.
"This can be challenging at times and requires protective clothing but it is a very good sign. Sealord's support is greatly appreciated and Ruben agrees with the choice of fish they are supplying him."
He will be released back into the sea once he has gained enough weight and it is hoped he will be able to make his way back to his Subantarctic home.
Department of Conservation ranger Dirk de Vries said the juvenile male seal was likely very emaciated from using a lot of energy to make the tough, long journey here.
"It's heartening to see the recovery of the Subantarctic fur seal under Mana Stratton's care and we're very grateful for the support she provides in rehabilitating injured or sick native wildlife.
"It's planned to release the seal back into the sea once it's gained enough weight. We hope it may find its way to its subantarctic home though we can't be sure but helping it back to a healthy condition gives it a chance to do so."
Sealord organised a menu of fish suitable for Ruben, from which southern blue whiting was selected as the best option - a small, whole fish that could be easily defrosted and best represented what he would catch in the wild.
Subantarctic fur seals are typically found on offshore islands throughout the subantarctic region and occasionally turn up in New Zealand. They are cousins of our native kekeno/New Zealand fur seals.
The Department of Conservation is asking people to report sightings of Subantarctic fur seals so more can be learned about their visits to our shores, including those that come here.
Last year there were several sightings of subantarctic fur seals including in Hawkes Bay, Whangamata and Auckland.
The Subantarctic fur seal has a blunter/shorter nose and creamy-coloured fur on the throat and underside.
New Zealand fur seals appear grey or brown and much more uniform in colour, while the subantarctic variety has very two-tone colouration with the distinctive pale cream underneath.
Sightings can be reported through the DOC [www.doc.govt.nz website] also by [marinemammals@doc.govt.nz emailing]. People spotting them are asked to take and provide photos from different angles.