The Department of Conservation was called in to assist with Mika’s departure, using pots and wooden shields to guide her back outside. Despite the inconvenience of a sea lion blocking the entrance, onlookers gathered outside, eagerly waiting for Mika to make her exit so they could finally get their hands on some takeaway.
Ranger Moss Thompson explained that Mika had been out at sea gathering food for her pup and had made a pit stop at the fish and chip shop on her way back. While it was a rare occurrence for a sea lion to venture into a takeout joint, there was no clear explanation for her behavior.
As a descendant of the matriarch of the Dunedin sea lion group, Mika had given birth just days before her unusual visit to the fish and chip shop. With a total of 13 pups born in the area over the past couple of weeks, the community was hopeful for a successful pupping season with a target of 35 newborns.
Overall, Mika’s escapade added a touch of excitement to the St Kilda takeaway store, leaving both customers and staff with a memorable story to share.
