Seasonal changes in the activity of the harp seal Pagophilus groenlandicus (Erxleben, 1777) (Carnivora: Phocidae) in aviary conditions
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Abstract
Despite the fact that the harp seal is considered one of the most widespread species of marine mammals in the northern seas, publications devoted to the study of its behavior are rare, especially when it comes to captivity conditions. This paper presents the results of a study of the activity of harp seals (Pagophilus groenlandicus Erxleben, 1777) in various seasons of the year in open enclosures, the conditions are as close as possible to natural. The data was collected at the biotechnical aquatic complexes of the Murmansk marine biological institute. The main research method was the method of "registration of individual behavioral manifestations". Behaviors such as surfacing, diving, and going on a platform were used to assess the seals' activity. The analysis of the obtained data revealed regular differences in the behavior of harp seals throughout the year.