Variations in feeding and social behaviour in a captive breeding group of harbour seals (Phoca vitulina)

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Abstract
Most Phocids are thought to reduce their food intake during the breeding and moulting seasons, even though fish are not in short supply. The present study of a captive breeding colony of harbour seals explored the relationship between changes in amount eaten, social behaviour and general activity levels. Even though the animals were given free access to food, over the year the daily amount they ate varied in three cycles. Food eaten fell below average between pupping and mating in June‐July, and fell again in November until early December, for a third time in mid February, and again in early May. Levels surpassed average during and shortly after moulting, and again in late December. Observations made during the summer and early fall revealed that the adult males became more active, and engaged in more social interaction when they were eating less. The female showed no such activity change as a function of appetite. Play occurred primarily when food levels were high. These results are discussed in the context of systems interaction theories of motivation.