Observation of Steller Sea Lion (Eumetopias jubatus) Predation on a Harbor Seal (Phoca vitulina richardii) in the Glacier Bay Region of Southeastern Alaska

摘要

Pinnipeds prey primarily on fish and invertebrates; however, several species are known to prey upon other pinniped species. Herein, we document an observation of a Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus) attacking and partially consuming a juvenile harbor seal (Phoca vitulina richardii) in Johns Hopkins Inlet in Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska. Population trends for Steller sea lions and harbor seals contrast dramatically in the Glacier Bay region. Although other marine predators are known to attack harbor seals, it is possible that Steller sea lions could potentially have both a direct and indirect influence on harbor seals in the Glacier Bay region.