The findings from the 2024 Great Seal Reveal have been released, providing valuable insights into the state of Australian (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) and New Zealand (Arctocephalus forsteri) fur seal populations in New South Wales.
The 2024 Great Seal Reveal survey was conducted as part of the Seabirds to Seascapes program to assess fur seal numbers, distribution, and habitat during the breeding season from August to October.
Drones, traditional observation methods, and citizen science data were collected using the Haul-Out Call-Out website, where the public can report seal sightings to support the research.
Population estimates and distribution
A total of 834 seals were identified across 11 sites. Barunguba Montague Island was confirmed as the most significant fur seal site in New South Wales, with 656 individuals recorded, including 53 pups. It remains the only known breeding colony in the South Coast region.
While survey findings indicate that fur seal populations remain stable at key monitoring sites, anecdotal reports suggest numbers may be increasing across New South Wales.
2024 Great Seal Reveal monitoring sites:
- Big Seal Rock
- Cabbage Tree Island
- Barrenjoey Headland
- Martin Island
- Drum and Drumsticks
- Brush Island
- Tollgate Island
- Bendalong Point
- Green Cape
- Barunguba Montague Island
- Steamers Head
Before the first Great Seal Reveal in 2024, annual population data wasn’t consistently collected in New South Wales. The survey marks an important step in building a baseline to track fur seal numbers over time.
Ongoing monitoring is key to understanding seal populations. In 2025, the Great Seal Reveal survey will focus more on known seal haul-out sites (places where seals come ashore to rest, moult, breed, and raise pups) to improve the accuracy of population estimates.
Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water and Taronga Zoo staff conduct traditional counting methods of New Zealand and Australian fur seals at Barrenjoey Head, New South Wales