1. Datasets
  2. Ringed Seal Movement, Habitat Use, and...

Ringed Seal Movement, Habitat Use, and Foraging Behavior Study

The ringed seal (Phoca hispida) is an essential species in the Arctic both ecologically and as a subsistence resource. Understanding the migration patterns, habitat, and foraging and diving behavior is important to the development of robust monitoring and management strategies. The need to collect this information is becoming more pressing as changes in the arctic environment increase. Ringed seals are facing predicted declines in their sea ice habitat due to climate change and possible threats from industrial development, such as increased shipping and oil and gas exploration. What effects these changes in their environment might have on ringed seals can only be addressed appropriately when we understand the basic biology of the species. This study focuses on gathering seal movement and dive profiles by attaching satellite-linked dive recorders (SDRs) and telemetry units to individual animals to record these variables over the course of several years. We are also collecting tissue samples and measurement for animal health assessment.

Data and Resources

Additional Info

Field Value
ISO Topics biota
Primary Contact Andrew Von Duyke (Andrew.VonDuyke@north-slope.org)
Other Contacts David C. Douglas (Email: ddouglas@usgs.gov)
Primary Organization North Slope Borough
Other Organizations Shell Exploration and Production Company, US Geological Survey
Organization Types Federal, Industry and Consultants, Local
Start Date 2011-07-01
Created February 23, 2016, 01:42 (AKST)
Last Updated July 1, 2021, 21:12 (AKDT)