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July 28 (UPI) — Marine rescuers in Australia are currently investigating the unusual case of a fur seal found in Lake Orr, located more than 9 miles away from the ocean.
Sea World is closely monitoring the seal’s condition in Queensland’s Gold Coast area, and at the moment, it seems to be in good health.
According to officials, stated in a Facebook post, discussions are ongoing with authorities regarding the seal’s relocation plans. Due to the presence of bull sharks in the lake and its river and canal systems, it is not considered a suitable long-term habitat for the seal.
Mitchell Leroy, Sea World’s curator of mammals and birds, is currently investigating how the seal ended up so far inland.
“It’s possible that it may have entered the park and crossed a small footbridge near the weir,” Leroy explained during an interview with the Australian Broadcasting Corp.
Alternatively, Leroy speculates that the seal might have navigated through a drainage system and climbed over a fence to reach the lake.
Despite the unusual circumstances, Leroy noted that the seal seems to be well-aware of the presence of bull sharks in the lake, as it is seen staying in the shallows and observing its surroundings.