Walruses in Svalbard numbered in the hundreds of thousands before 3 centuries of over-harvesting brought the population to the verge of extinction. Today this stock is in an early phase of recovery; it consists of only a few thousand animals. Little is known about habitat utilization, foraging areas or behaviour in this population. This program will use satellite telemetry to identify important feeding areas for walruses. Geographical position data in combination with detailed dive information will provide novel insight into habitat use by this large pinniped. Scat analyses, isotope analyses and surveys of potential benthic prey will provide more specific information about diet.  Haul-out behaviour studies, in addition to the satellite data activity budgets will permit the calculation of correction factors for aerial surveys.  In addition, we will study the exposure to and effects of substances such as PCBs, toxaphenes and brominated flame-retardants. We will also study the possible endocrine disruption potential of the contaminant mixtures the walruses are exposed to via their diet. Finally, based on information on haul-out behaviour from the satellite telemetry project and observational data, we will conduct a photographic aerial survey of all known haul-out sites in order to produce a current, accurate population estimate.

Most project elements listed above have been completed recently, or are in the analyses phase. Our ongoing work in this programme involves assessment of the impact of tourism, and in the longer term climate change, on Svalbard’s walrus population.

All positions are now filled within this programme.