Deep foraging dives in relation to the energy depletion of Weddell seal (Leptonychotes weddellii) mothers during lactation

摘要: We examined the behavioral adaptations of Weddell seals (Leptonychotes weddellii) that may help them to compensate for decreasing energy stores during lactation. Field studies were conducted from late October early December in 1999 and 2000 at breeding colonies Antarctica. Data loggers attached adult females with pups aged 12–49 days old record depth temperature. Additionally, digital still cameras also mounted on mothers monitor their behaviors environment. The deployed free-ranging (1999, n=11; 2000, n=30) 16–62 h. Diving behavior varied markedly among individuals. Some did not dive below 50 m, while others spent more than 30% time repeatedly diving depths greater m. recorded images showed sometimes stretched necks capture fish other prey-like objects encountered near 300 percentage total per day m was significantly correlated date, pup age, fatness (=girth/length) mother. Since thinner a deep dives, we concluded nursing adjust accordingly deeper feed order replenish own stores, which decrease