Hooker's Sea Lions are sometimes seen in our viewing area or at Pilots Beach near the Royal Albatross Colony at Taiaroa Head. At 400 kg male Hooker's Sea Lions are much larger than the closely related New Zealand Fur Seal that weighs up to 185 kilograms.
Although Hooker's Sea Lions' preferred food is squid they are also natural predators to Yellow-eyed Penguins and young fur seals. Usually sea lions that are sometimes seen at the beach are only interested in having a sleep, however, their presence will ensure the Yellow-eyed Penguins approach the beach with caution.