27 December 2024: Large decline in hooded seal pup production observed off northeastern Newfoundland

A new article by Hamilton and colleagues, titled “Large decline in hooded seal (Cystophora cristata) pup production off of northeastern Newfoundland in 2012 and 2017”, has been published in the NAMMCO Scientific Publications series.

The study reveals a significant decline in hooded seal pup production off southern Labrador/northeastern Newfoundland, the primary whelping area for this species in the Northwest Atlantic. Aerial surveys estimated pup production in 2012 and 2017 to be less than 40% of the levels recorded in 2005. Extensive reconnaissance of the surrounding areas suggests that this decline was not due to the seals moving to other whelping areas.

The findings mirror similar trends in the Greenland Sea population and may be linked to ecosystem changes affecting female reproduction and juvenile survival. These results highlight the need for updated assessments of hooded seals, which have not been formally reviewed since 2005.

For more details, read the full article here: https://doi.org/10.7557/3.7410

Photo: Michael Poltermann