A seal has stopped traffic on Hobart’s busy East Derwent Highway this morning.
The Australian fur seal was spotted lounging around on the road near Old Beach on Saturday and was quick to attract crowds of people.
Police were called in to direct traffic after the seal decided to sunbathe in the middle of the road before re-entering the River Derwent.
The Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) has previously asked people to keep their distance if a seal shows up.
“Coastal marine mammals such as seals are known to visit Tasmania’s large estuaries and river systems, often coinciding with seasonal movements. Seals may also come ashore but, in most cases, find their way back to the waterway,” a spokesperson said.
“Fur seals are wild animals and members of the public are reminded not to interfere with wildlife and keep their distance. Please keep your dogs on a lead and well away from the resting seal.”
To report a stranding or sighting of seals, whales or dolphins in Tasmania, call the whale hotline on 0427 942 537 (0427 WHALES).
