Haulout site selection by southern elephant seals at Marion Island

摘要: Using data from an ongoing mark–resight programme at Marion Island, we tested empirically whether southern elephant seals prefer certain terrestrial sites to others during the breeding, moulting and winter haulouts, pattern of site use is same for different age sex groups. Southern preferred some sites, while discriminating against other with classes using haulout events. Wintering young animals did not show strong selection. Some popular were used all haulouts by groups, apparently have requirements a good seals. Site selection becomes more apparent age, suggesting role experience in