Reported incidents of dogs attacking protected wildlife are increasing, newly released DOC data has revealed.

And the data shows kiwi, our national bird, is falling victim to uncontrolled dogs at a concerning rate.

DOC principal investigation officer Hayden Loper said a report compiled by DOC’s National Compliance Team shows there were 75 recorded incidents of dogs attacking, killing or harassing seals or sea lions between September 9, 2020, and August 12, 2025.

“Deaths of seals and sea lions have occurred in every year, with a noticeable spike in 2024,” Loper said in a statement.

“August is the most common month for attacks on seal and sea lions.”

DOC’s data release on dog attack incidents coincides with a case which culminated earlier this month.

A man appeared for sentencing in Nelson District Court on two charges relating to an incident in September 2024, when his two dogs attacked a fur seal on Kina Beach near Motueka.

He was fined $2000 and his dogs were ordered to be destroyed.

Loper said the reported incidents of dogs attacking wildlife don’t end with seals and sea lions.

Penguins and kiwi also feature prominently in the five-year statistics – in the same five-year period, there were 96 incidents of other protected species falling victim to dogs.

“It’s the owner’s responsibility to keep their dog under control.

“It is not just untrained or aggressive dogs that kill protected wildlife – even small, usually docile pets or well-trained hunting dogs can and do cause serious injury or death when not controlled.”

Under the Dog Control Act, it is a serious offence to own a dog which attacks protected wildlife.

The maximum penalty for owning a dog that attacks and kills protected wildlife is three years in prison, or a $20,000 fine. The dog will almost always be destroyed.

“DOC will investigate all reported incidents of dogs attacking or harassing wildlife,” Loper said.

“The best way the public can help us with this is by reporting any incident involving a dog attacking wildlife, and calling 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).”

DOC’s data categorises the interactions between dogs and seals/sea lions according to severity. Although harassment is the most common type of incident, attacks and injuries have increased in recent years, said Loper.

“We need dog owners who are out naturing to demonstrate responsibility for their animals, and ensure they keep them away from protected native species. It’s best to get them trained and not need it, than skip the training and have an incident.”