Site fidelity and behaviour of killer whales (Orcinus orca) at Sea Lion Island in the Southwest Atlantic

Using shore-based observations and photographic identification of killer whales (Orcinus orca) at Sea Lion Island (52°26'S,59°05'W) in the Falklands/Malvinas archipelago, we identified a small group (6 to 12 animals) targeting a southern elephant seal (Mirounga leonina) breeding colony. Si...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals
Main Authors: Yates, O., Black, A. D., Palavecino, P.
Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
Language:English
Published: Sociedad Latinoamericana de Especialistas en Mamíferos Acuáticos (SOLAMAC) 2007
Subjects:
Elephant Seal
Lion Island
Mirounga leonina
Orca
Orcinus orca
Southern Elephant Seal
Online Access:https://lajamjournal.org/index.php/lajam/article/view/266
https://doi.org/10.5597/lajam00112
Description
Summary:Using shore-based observations and photographic identification of killer whales (Orcinus orca) at Sea Lion Island (52°26'S,59°05'W) in the Falklands/Malvinas archipelago, we identified a small group (6 to 12 animals) targeting a southern elephant seal (Mirounga leonina) breeding colony. Sightings during 2004-05 and photographic matches from the early 1990s suggest site fidelity. Behavioural observations revealed ambush and shallow water hunting techniques along rocky outcrops and two beaches used by elephant seal pups and juveniles. A single successful attack and three unsuccessful attempts were recorded.

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