One of the most interesting animals to be found in Jervis Bay is the Australian fur seal. These amazing creatures can be seen year round in the region, hunting, playing, swimming, and relaxing on the rugged shoreline. The resident Jervis Bay fur seals live at the Drum & Drumsticks, and are the main attraction of our Jervis Bay Passage Cruise.
Facts About the Fur Seal
The Australian fur seal is one of the rarest species of fur seal in the world. Growing very large in adulthood, the mature male Australian fur seal can weigh up to 360 kg. Female seals are also very large, weighing in around 90-100 kg. Living in the waters of Jervis Bay, as well as the ocean between Victoria and Tasmania, Australian fur seals spend much of their time on the rocky coastline.
Australian fur seals get their name for the two layers of fur they possess. This double layer of fur keeps their temperature steady, and keeps their skin dry even when swimming underwater.
Female seals have one baby at a time, gestating for approximately one year. Spending nearly all of their adult life in pregnancy, female seals are able to mate only a week after giving birth to their young. Male fur seals mate prolifically, often with around 50 different females every year.
Early spring is the typical birthing time for Australian fur seals, so October is an ideal time of year to see these mammals and their babies. Once the lone baby is born, the males stake out a claim on the coast as a spot for the mother to arrive and give birth. Here the mother and baby will remain for several weeks during nursing. Eventually, the young seal will be left on its own for periods of a few days, as the parents head out to sea for hunting. Producing a single new baby nearly every year, Australian fur seals have a lifespan of around 20 years, with females generally outliving their male counterparts.
Jervis Bay Passage Cruise
The chance to see these massive, unique animals up close and personal is rare and exciting opportunity for visitors to Jervis Bay. Our Jervis Bay Passage Cruise brings travelers along the gorgeous bay waters, past spectacular scenery, and arrives at the local seal colony on Drum & Drumsticks.
The Australian fur seal is a protected species. In the past, these animals were often hunted, which drastically reduced their numbers on the planet. Now, they are at risk with dangers such as oil spills or entrapment in nets or other fishing paraphernalia.
We at Jervis Bay Wild greatly support protection of this remarkable species. We ensure all of our interactions with the seals (and any actions we take which may affect the animals) are in line with all appropriate precautions and conservation practices. As we bring visitors out to see the fur seals on our Jervis Bay Passage Cruise, they are given an opportunity to observe these mammals in their natural environment, developing a better understanding of and appreciation for one of our most beloved Australian species.
