Distribution and diving of harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) in Svalbard

The distribution, movements and diving of high-arctic harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) were studied in Svalbard, Norway, from 1992 to 1995. A total of 1 4 seals were equipped with satellite transmitters at Prins Karls Forland (c a. 78 degrees 30'N 12 degreesE). These gave data on position, but ten also gave information on dive depths (N similar to 160,000) and dive durations ( N similar to 162,000). Dive-depth frequencies show that similar to 50% of t he diving is shallower than 40 m, and that 95% of the diving is shallower t han 250 m. Based on dive-duration frequencies, similar to 50% of the dives lasted 2-4 min, 90% of the dives lasted less than 7 min, and 97% were short er than 10 min. All but three seals stayed in the tagging area.