Environmental and biotic influences on the haulout behavior of Phoca Vitulina (Linnaeus, 1758) and Halichoerus Grypus (Fabricius, 1791)

Button, Clarence Edward (1973) Environmental and biotic influences on the haulout behavior of Phoca Vitulina (Linnaeus, 1758) and Halichoerus Grypus (Fabricius, 1791). Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

Pinnipeds are the only group of mammals which exist in complete familiarity with the terrestrial and marine environments. -- A colony of 423 Phoca vitulina and 82 Halichoerus grypus, legislatively protected in the Grand Barachois, Miquelon, were examined as to their behaviour permitting them to utilize both land and sea. -- Haulouts of pinnipeds were descriptively and quantitatively examined by surveying the biota and topography of the preferred habitats. Fluctuations in meteorological and hydrographic parameters were correlated with variations in the position, number, species, sex and age composition of seal groups. -- Sand or mud flat topography, isolation from mainland areas, proximity to migrant food sources, ambient air and sea temperatures and tidal variations were base site elements affecting seal behaviour. The crucial periods of parturition, mating and moult in the Harbour Seal are related to the resting aggregation of Grey Seals.

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