Observations on seals on the island of Surtsey in the period 1980-2012

A significant grey seal breeding site has been established on the northern spit of Surtsey, Iceland, with approximately 60 pups born in autumn 2012. This rookery is one of the largest on Iceland's southern coasts, contrasting with the limited presence of harbour seals during breeding seasons. However, harbour seals haul-out in large numbers on Surtsey's northern shores during winter, likely using it as a resting place after foraging in adjacent waters. The study surveyed both seal species along Icelandic coasts from 1980 to 2012, noting marked declines in their populations. Observations were conducted through systematic surveys, providing insights into the seals' breeding and haul-out behaviors in this unique volcanic island environment.

Hauksson, E. (2015). Observations on seals on the island of Surtsey in the period 1980-2012. Surtsey Research, 13, 41–43. https://doi.org/10.33112/surtsey.13.4