Trends in Propeller Strike-Induced Mortality in Harbor Seals (Phoca vitulina) of the Salish Sea

• DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-20-00221
• Publication Date: 2021-07-05T14:03:50Z
• Authors: Jennifer K. Olson; Dyanna M. Lambourn; Jessica L. Huggins; Stephen Raverty; Alyssa A. Scott; Joseph K. Gaydos
• Keywords: Demographics

Documenting human impacts on marine mammals is critical for understanding and mitigating harm. Although propeller strike injuries in small are often debilitating fatal, little known about the occurrence or demographics of these types pinniped populations. Using data stranded harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) Salish Sea from 2002–19, we identified 27 cases fatal strikes. Weaned pups were most frequently affected (64% cases) with a much higher rate strikes than expected age class. they do represent animal welfare concerns, probably not threatened by at population level; nevertheless, increased significantly over time this study period, indicating interactions between boats region. Continued monitoring efforts to consistently quantify vessel traffic area recommended create monitor long-term effectiveness mitigation measures.