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    Entanglement of Antarctic fur seals Arctocephalus gazella in man-made debris at Signy Island, South Orkney Islands 2000/01

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    Document Number:
    SC-CAMLR-XX/BG/04
    Author(s):
    Delegation of the United Kingdom
    Approved By:
    Admin Admin (CCAMLR Secretariat)
    Agenda Item(s)
    Abstract

    The results of the fifth annual survey of entanglement of Antarctic fur seals at Signy Island, South Orkney Islands are reported for the 2000/2001 summer season. This is the first year in which there were no sightings of seals with neck collars of man-made debris. Data are compared with results from a parallel study undertaken at Bird Island, South Georgia in 2000/2001. In contrast to Signy Island, these indicated that the number of entangled fur seals had increased (by57%) compared to the previous year. The absence of entangled seals at Signy Island could be due to the relatively low numbers of seals coming ashore (10,091) which was 51% fewer than 1999/2000. Notwithstanding this, the incidence of entanglement has been following a declining trend since 1998/1999. Nevertheless, CCAMLR members need to continue their campaign to ensure that vessels are aware of, and comply with, regulations prohibiting the disposal of debris at sea.