Sealion Survey in the Falklands

Abstract

In 1965 the author, a resident of the Falkland Islands, made an aerial survey of seal populations, concentrating mainly on sealions, because numbers appeared to be declining. His results showed a drastic decline in sealion numbers, and he believes that they are still a fair indication of the situation today. In this article he surveys the history of sealing in the islands, describes his census, discusses results and the possible causes for the decline, and urges the need for a full official census. © 1979, Fauna and Flora International. All rights reserved.