The Maribyrnong River Trail: A Seal's Sunny Adventure
On a bright, cloudless Saturday morning, the Maribyrnong River trail offered a delightful surprise for morning walkers and runners alike. Amidst the serene setting, a local seal decided to bask in the sun, much to the delight of the residents.
As dozens of locals strolled along the riverbank near The Boulevard in Aberfeldie, they encountered an Australian fur seal enjoying the warmth. One resident shared their adorable observation: 'It was so cute! Every time it moved into the shade under the tree, it wiggled playfully to return to the sun.'
The authorities were promptly notified, and a barricade was erected to ensure the seal's safety. However, when the Melbourne Zoo marine response unit arrived to examine the seal, it slipped back into the river, showcasing its resilience.
This wasn't the seal's first river adventure. In 2020, another seal was spotted playing with a fish in its mouth, as captured in a video (https://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/national/seal-plays-with-its-lunch-in-melbourne-river-australia/video/b53cfbe9046d5e0466c603222f04b910).
It's important to remember that touching or feeding seals is illegal, and Wildlife Victoria guidelines advise maintaining a 30-meter distance from them when they are on land. So, while it's heartwarming to witness these marine mammals in their natural habitat, it's crucial to appreciate them from a distance.
