Science Advisory Report 2008/062
Recovery potential assessment for freshwater harbour seal, Phoca vitulina mellonae, (Lac des Loups marins Designated Unit (DU))
Summary
- There is limited information available related to the ecology and biology of this subspecies. More information is needed to understand all threats that may play a role in recovery.
- The available information on abundance is highly uncertain. Numbers may vary from a few dozen to a few hundred animals.
- Assuming a small population on the order of about 50 animals, an optimistic assessment suggests that recovery to 200 animals could occur within 10-20 years and a recovery to 350 animals could occur within 15-30 years depending on the type of model used. Recovery to the higher level assumes that there are no barriers to dispersal to re-occupy former areas. This assumption is likely to be optimistic.
- Although the population size is unknown, if it numbers around 50 animals, then the population could allow approximately one removal every three years.
- Freshwater harbour seals may be threatened by two main causes; increased extirpation risk as a result of low population size, and disappearance of ice-free areas during winter by hydroelectric development.
- Further information on abundance, population parameters, pupping habitat, and dietary requirements are needed to develop an effective strategy.
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