- a simple question that has been difficult to answer. Data at TOPP: By following the movements of these seals and analyzing the oceanographic data collected by the sensors they are carrying, researchers have begun to explain the distribution patterns of elephant seals and their migration behavior. They look shaggy and unkempt as they lose sheets of fur and epidermis before growing new skin and silvery new fur. They also develop a robust, thick neck that is heavily creased and lighter in color than their dark bodies. Adult males use their large, inflatable noses during the winter breeding season to resonate sound when vocally threatening each other. Northern elephant seal post-molting migration. This hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for anyone in the United States. The results of this research are used to inform management decisions and ensure stable population levels for this species. Pregnant elephant seals arrive at the rookery for the purpose of giving birth, and often do so within two days of their arrival. During the molt, these animals fast and lose weight. The females are much smaller at 10 feet (3 m) in length and 1,500 pounds (600 kg). Scientists infer pelagic or benthic foraging preferences based on dive depth in relationship to bathymetry. The best place to see elephant seals in the park is at Chimney Rock, which is a 45-minute drive from the Bear Valley Visitor Center (see map). The projected increase in vessel traffic arising from the opening of trans-polar shipping routes (as arctic sea ice continues to decline) will increase the risk of vessel strikes and also increase ambient noise and pollution. Northern elephant seals can get entangled in fishing gear, causing injury and possibly death. Abstract. Northern elephant seals spend much of the year—generally about 9 months—in the ocean. With the recovery of the northern elephant seal population, increasing numbers of elephant seals congregate on local beaches where visitors see them give birth, mate, molt and snooze. During a prolonged dry season in Africa, elephant migration distances were recorded to extend over 100 km (62 mi.). Photo: NOAA Fisheries/Eric Boerner. Sensors carried by elephant seals collect and store data over time. (GA image) Sneaker males hang out along the periphery of the rookery and try to mate when the harem master is asleep or busy. The northern elephant seal is the largest of the “true” seal in the Northern Hemisphere. Northern elephant seal pups are black until they are weaned at about 6 weeks old, when they molt and turn light silver. Observe all seals and sea lions from a safe distance of at least 50 yards and limit your time spent observing to 30 minutes or less. When they are molting they look like they are in very poor shape, but this is normal. NOAA Fisheries is working to better understand and characterize the frequency, geographic extent, and magnitude of these interactions. We are also working with researchers to identify and evaluate ways to safely and effectively reduce the potential for these interactions. Since huge males need more food than females, yet they spend less time foraging, they may be eating not just more food, but foods that are higher in caloric content than females. Never approach or try to save an injured or entangled animal yourself—it can be dangerous to both the animal and you. Six illuminating southern elephant seal facts. Call the NOAA Fisheries Enforcement Hotline at (800) 853-1964 to report a federal marine resource violation. Determining the number of northern elephant seals in each population—and whether a stock is increasing or decreasing over time—helps resource managers assess the success of enacted conservation measures. “This was the first time that a map had ever connected me to the life of an individual animal,” Uberti says. They go to forage and build up energy reserves that allow land-based activities while fasting for 2-4 months. In 1990, just under two dozen elephant seals were seen on the beach just south of the Piedras Blancas lighthouse. Northern elephant seals can become entangled in fishing gear, either swimming off with the gear attached or becoming anchored. Learn more about our marine life viewing guidelines >. Numerous organizations around the country are trained and ready to respond. Its population began to steadily increase in the early 1900s. When stranded animals are found alive, NOAA Fisheries and its partners assess the animal’s health and try to return it to the water. 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