The Australian Fur Seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) is the predominant seal species seen in Port Phillip Bay. The status is informed by the latest available time-series data indicating reported emergencies from the Melbourne Zoos Marine Response Unit. The most recognisable site for Australian Fur Seals is Chinaman’s Hat located in the South Channel of Port Phillip Bay which serves as a haul out site, predominantly for males. Other haul out sites include Pope's Eye, South Channel Fort and South Channel Marker, but also include smaller structures and buoys.
The seals do not breed within Port Phillip Bay, the closest breeding site is Seal Rocks located on the
Photo credit: Prof. John Arnould
southwest coast of Phillip Island, with an estimated population of 20,000 seals. Port Phillip Bay is occasionally visited by other seal species including subantarctic fur seals, leopard seals, southern elephant seals, New Zealand fur seals, crabeater seals and Australian sea lions. The status was calculated using a Biological Quality Ratio. For more detail on how this status was calculated view the methodology section.
Data contributors and acknowledgements:
Page last updated: 17/04/24