A STRANDED SEA LEOPARD.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLIII, Issue 13214, 27 June 1906, Page 6

A STRANDED SEA LEOPARD.

A fkmalk -sea leopard' (Maori name "Pakaka :) about Bft in length was seen early 'last Monday morning in the vicinity of the Dairy Factory Hill, Timaru, by several persons who were passing to work between eight and nine o'clock. On its body there were several scars, old and new, and there were two- very fresh-looking woundsone on the shoulder, and the other near the tail— though inflicted by a hairpoon. In all probability the leopard came ashore to lie in the sun and 1 allow these wounds to heal; and also to take the opportunity for a rest, for it appeared very weak, and moved about reluctantly as though in pain. The species is of a vicious nature, and were it not for its weak condition Home of the curious who stood close to it might easily have been bitten. The back was of a prettV pale gray colour, and on the sides were scattered spots of black and white. Getting tired' of the constant annoyance to which it was 'subjected by children, and some thoughtless adults, it went to sea. again about nine a.m. The.se animals are very highly protected, and 110 one should interfere with them in any way. It is quite possible that had it not been annoyed, it would have. remained on land! till at least the wounds were fit to stand the action of the water. The male leopard grows to a length of about 12ft, while the specimen seen is the full size of a femaile. During the winter they often visit the coasts of the South Island of New Zealand.