Entanglement of Antarctic fur seals (Arctocephalus gazella) in man-made debris at Bird Island, South Georgia, during the 2002 winter and 2002/03 breeding season

Results of the surveys of entanglement of Antarctic fur seals at Bird Island, South Georgia for the thirteenth consecutive winter (2002) and fifteenth consecutive summer (2001/02) are reported here. The overall number of entanglements showed a decrease from last year of 55% in winter and 67%. Severe injuries accounted for 33% of entanglements over winter and 25% during the summer. As in previous years, most individuals observed entangled in debris were juveniles (88% of winter and 81% of summer observations), the reasons for this are discussed. Of the entanglements where the animal could be sexed, males dominated the observations in both seasons. Plastic packaging bands and synthetic strings (nylon braid) accounted for the majority of all entanglements (81%); no entanglement in fishing nets was observed This highlights the need for continued monitoring and increased effort in ensuring correct disposal of debris with the potential to entangle wildlife at sea.