In a stunning display of aquatic aggression, a seal chased by a shark in New Zealand’s waters has rammed a kayaker twice in an attempt to escape the razor-toothed predator. The kayaker, who was minding their own business paddling along the picturesque coastline, had no idea what was in store for them when they got caught up in the marine mayhem.
Eye-witnesses reported that the seal was swimming with a sense of urgency, clearly spooked by the nearby shark. Witnesses also noted that the shark appeared quite hungry, eyeing the plump and juicy seal with a predatory gleam in its eye.
In an effort to avoid becoming lunch, the seal decided to take evasive action and make a break for it. Unfortunately, its chosen escape route involved swimming directly towards the hapless kayaker. “The seal was really moving, it was like it was on some kind of mission,” said one onlooker who witnessed the dramatic chase unfold.
As the seal approached the kayaker, it became apparent that the seal had no intention of sharing its fate with anyone else. In a move perhaps inspired by the movie Jaws, the seal rammed into the kayak with such force that the unsuspecting kayaker was nearly thrown overboard. Unfortunately for the kayaker, the seal wasn’t content with just one collision, and it quickly turned around and rammed into the kayak again, just for good measure.
Thankfully, the kayaker managed to keep their balance and avoid a dunking in the chilly waters. But the shark and the seal were far from done with their action-packed marine antics. Witnesses reported that the shark continued to chase the hapless seal, who in turn, continued to make the poor kayaker’s life more difficult by swimming along under their kayak.
As the chase continued, it became clear that the seal was trying to use the kayak as some kind of makeshift shelter. Perhaps it believed that the kayak was some kind of magical seal-repelling device. Either way, the kayaker was left with the unenviable task of navigating through the choppy waters while dealing with a seal that was hell-bent on using them as a bodyguard.
Eventually, the seal and the shark disappeared from view, leaving the kayaker to reflect on their momentary stint as a marine rodeo clown. Luckily, the kayaker wasn’t badly injured by the seal’s repeated collisions, and they managed to make it back to shore with their dignity intact (if a little damp).
The New Zealand Department of Conservation has advised kayakers and beachgoers to be vigilant in the area and to keep a safe distance from seals and sharks. They have also issued a stern warning to any seals thinking of using kayakers as a convenient escape route.
So, the next time you’re out kayaking in New Zealand, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for enraged seals on the run from hungry sharks. Or better yet, just stay on the beach with a good book and leave the animal battles to the experts.
