Movements and Activity Patterns of Harbor Seals (Phoca vitulina) from the Drakes Estero Population, California, 1985-1986
Shuford D, Fancher L, Ainley DG, Allen SG. 1986. Movements and Activity Patterns of Harbor Seals (Phoca vitulina) from the Drakes Estero Population, California, 1985-1986
Brief Description: A report on a study of the movement and seasonal activity patterns of harbor seals in Drakes Estero. Full Description: Because they harbor seal colonies in the Point Reyes area contribute about 20% of the mainland California breeding population, this study was done in order to shine a light on them while devising regional management policies. The main objectives of this study were 1) to determine if the apparent decline in seal numbers during the winter months was a function of dispersal and seasonal movements, or a reduction in the frequency of the haul-out pattern, 2) the destination of departing animals, 3) daily and seasonal variability in haul-out behavior, and 4) if gender accounted for variations in the above. Information on seasonal activity patterns and fall/winter movements would be invaluable for any long-term management program for seals in the Point Reyes area, and in conjunction with results accumulated elsewhere, could provide more accurate estimates of the California harbor seal population.
- Type
- Unpublished Report
- Authors
- Shuford, David; Fancher, Lyman; Ainley, David; Allen, Sarah
- Date of Issue
- 1986-12
- Units
- PORE
- Keywords
- Aerial Surveys, Breeding, Census, Gulf of the Frarllones National Marine Sanctuary, haul-out, Klamath River, Limantour Beach, Limantour Spit, molt, Monterey Bay, radio-tagging, Radio-Telemetry