Purpose for Harbor Seal Census Study
This year-long research experience focuses on research questions and hypotheses proposed by teacher/student teams. The project integrates research and education in settings that range from the laboratory to the field through such activities as survey cruises, data collection, data analysis, interpretation, and dissemination of results via a dedicated web site. Seasonal workshops, including a week-long summer seminar, provide instruction on the management issues and conservation needs of the environment in which we all live.
Research Questions and Past Projects
- How does boat traffic near Sheffield Island affect harbor seals?
- How many seals haul out at Sheffield Island?
- How do weather variables such as wave height affect the number of seals observed hauling out?
- Is there aggression between gray and harbor seals?
- Do juvenile and adult harbor seals compete for haul out space?
Check out these past presentations by our student researchers (PDF).
Kaynor Tech – Is there aggressive behavior between harbor and gray seals?
Tomlinson Middle School – Do haul out rocks provide more than just a resting place?
St. Bernadette's School – How does weather effect haul out behavior of seals?
Sheffield Island Seal Camera
In 2004, a new remote video camera was installed in the lantern room of Sheffield Island Lighthouse. The camera allows us to observe seals throughout the winter even when it snows! You may see the camera panning and zooming to the different rocks that the seals rest upon off Sheffield Island. Make sure you check out our video highlights and seal behavior videos to see some of interesting seal observations.
