Status of the Northern Fur Seal, Callorhinus ursinus, in Canada

Abstract

This report reviews the general biology, status, and management of the Northern Fur Seal (Callorhinus ursinus), with special reference to its status in Canadian waters. While Northern Fur Seals do not breed within Canadian waters, they can be found in large numbers in the waters offshore of British Columbia year-round, and occasional stragglers are found inshore. Generally found only in small groups during the pelagic phase of their life, the largest numbers occur in British Columbia waters from January through June. The eastern North Pacific population has declined significantly over the last 30 years, but the cause is unknown.