Survey of Antarctic fur seals Arctocephalus gazella in the South Shetland Islands, Antarctica, during the 1986/87 austral summer

A survey of Antarctic fur seals in the South Shetland Islands, Antarctica, during the 1986/87 austral summer indicated that this species is continuing its population recovery and recolonization of rookery sites following 19th Century commercial exploitation. Twelve fur seal pupping sites were identified, some of which had not previously been reported. The largest pupping sites are at Telmo Island and Cape Shirreff, on the north coast of Livingston Island. Total fur seal pup production in the South Shetland Islands in 1986/87 is estimated to be approximately 4000 individuals. Notes on other pinniped species observed during the survey are presented. The optimal sites for combined fur seal and penguin monitoring activities, as part of the CCAMLR Ecosystem Monitoring Program, are recommended as Seal Island, Elephant Island; Stigant point, King George Island; and Cape Shirreff/Telmo Island, Livingston Island.