[leovb]

On the return journey from Stewart Island (where we were lucky to see a Leopardseal from very close disatance, 2 m,) we travelled through the Catlins.

At several points you can find NZ Fur Seals and Hooker Sea Lions. But I was very surprised to see the Fur Seals on the very steep rocky and pointed formations at Nugget point! It looked as though they must be able to climb these rockformations like a cat climbs in a tree. To me (as I am not used to sealions and until recently only knew them from TV-films) this was a big surprise.

Since this is a birdforum I also can tell you that Northern Giant Petrel, Sooty Shearwater (100s) and Yellow-eyed pinguins can be seen overthere. Unfortunately I didn't see Southern Sea-elephants. Maybe on our next trip to Dunedin we will be so lucky to see them.

Cheers,
Leo

[albatross02]

Hi Leo,

2002 I was on Nugget Point and saw Sea Elephant and Sealions from the high cliffs. Also Yellow Eyed Penguin was there. It should be the rarest penguin in the world. Also possible the sea the Y.E. Penguin on Moereki Beach and Omaru.

Best regards
Dieter