By Jessica Sier
It's one of Sydney's new favourite sights - a New Zealand sub-adult fur seal sunning itself on the steps of the Opera House.
But is it the same celebrity sea mammal that warmed the hearts of Sydneysiders and visitors as it relaxed in that same spot last October?
The New Zealand fur seal on the steps of the Opera House in October. Credit: Jessica Hromas
A spokesman for the Office of Environment and Heritage was reluctant to confirm whether the seal was the same, though it is "very similar" to the one that surfaced a few months ago.
It displayed the same superstar nonchalance, sunbathing on the VIP steps in the northwest corner of the Opera House forecourt and slipping into the water to put on a show for spectators.
An Opera House representative confirmed the 'Opera House seal' first surfaced about 4.30am, though the summer holiday crowd rushed for a glimpse of the slippery character around 10am.
The Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia and the National Parks and Wildlife Service have assessed the seal, saying it's in good condition without any injuries.
"Sometimes when a seal hauls out, it's resting from an injury or an attack," said a spokesperson from the Office of Environment and Heritage. "But that doesn't appear to be the case here."
Already a proven social media sensation, this year's version of the seal has a Twitter account: @SassySydneySeal.
Early on Tuesday afternoon, it tweeted to its followers: