While they can look harmless, seals can inflict serious injuries to dogs or people and can carry infectious diseases. It is an offence under the Marine Mammals Protection Act 1978 to disturb, harass, harm, injure or kill a seal.

Do fur seals bite?

Both male and female fur seals can become extremely aggressive when provoked, and their bites, if not properly treated, pose a significant risk of infection by microorganisms not usually encountered in cases of animal bites.

Are Australian fur seals aggressive?

Australian fur seals are not highly aggressive animals. Swimming in large groups, any attacks they make are generally made in defense. When threatened, they swim quickly out in various directions to cause confusion.