Feeding ecology of harp and hooded seals in the Davis Strait — Baffin Bay region

摘要: Abstract Results of stomach contents analyses material collected in West Greenland waters the period 1986–1993 are reviewed, and compared with published data circumstantial information from local hunters. The diet harp seals feeding this region is variable but consists mainly pelagic crustaceans (euphausids amphipods) small fish species such as capelin, sandeel, polar cod Arctic cod. Species importance for commercial fisheries Greenland, Northern prawn, Atlantic cod, halibut play a minor role area. Variation hooded less well documented, addition to also taken by seals, larger demersal fishes halibut, redfish, wolffish apparently important prey items. Published on seal Canadian briefly reviewed; they indicate variation food composition between seasons areas similar what was found waters. Detailed not found. Information population sizes, distribution abundance reviewed. On basis it suggested that possible develop density indices area season coastal use combined estimate consumption region. Similar may be developed Arctic, offshore areas, arrive at total stocks during their migrations stay Davis Strait — Baffin Bay