Document Type
Thesis
Publication Date
6-4-2024
Keywords
Photo-ID, Harbor seals, Marine
Abstract
The primary method of tracking cetaceans and pinnipeds has been the use of photo-ID. The difference(s) in the application of photo-ID between these organisms lies in cetaceans being photographed solely in marine environments, and pinnipeds having the capacity to be photographed both in marine and terrestrial environments. Here, the focus lay on only using images of harbor seals taken in the marine environment in order to capture the full extent of their behavioral activities. Data was collected in the form of specific data sheets belonging to the Pacific Mammal Research Organization (PACMAM); images were taken using a variety of professional cameras. The images were then appended to the preexisting catalog of harbor seals and individual identities were confirmed. It was concluded that the use of marine images for identification of pinnipeds captures a much greater portion of their daily activities than the use of only terrestrial images does, thus allowing for possible long-term studies to be conducted on behavior (and other life history traits) using photo-ID.
Recommended Citation
Bingham, Merlot, "Photo-identification catalogs and their importance for marine ID confirmation of Pacific harbor seals (Phoca vitulina richardii)" (2024). Marine and Coastal Science Undergraduate Scholarship. 2.
https://cedar.wwu.edu/macs_studentpubs/2
Type
Text
Rights
Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this document for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author’s written permission.
Language
English
Format
application/pdf