Bottlenecks to Survival is part of the PSF
Marine Science Program
A COLLABORATIVE APPROACH TO UNDERSTANDING ECOLOGICAL INTERACTIONS
The Pinniped Monitoring Program, developed through collaborations with First Nations partners Wei Wai Kum, Wei Wai Kai, A-Tlegay Fisheries Society, Snuneymuxw, and Cowichan Tribes, aims to explore the interactions between pinnipeds (seals and sea lions) and Pacific salmon on Eastern Vancouver Island, BC.
By developing a standardized assessment program, the project seeks to expand knowledge on pinniped utilization of rivers and estuaries, and inform strategies to increase salmon productivity.
The monitoring efforts are conducted year-round, with increased focus during critical salmon migration periods.
The research utilizes a variety of techniques for data collection:
Drone Surveys: Used in estuarine and lower river areas to establish a pinniped population index based on aerial data.
On-River Camera Traps: Deployed at major pinniped feeding sites to capture detailed interactions.
Shore-Based Visual Surveys: Visual observations are conducted at random times, adjusted according to salmon migration patterns.
Side-Scan Sonar: Used in multiple rivers to monitor pinniped behavior and habitat use.
Funded through spring 2026, the Pinniped Monitoring Program aims to determine the minimum data needed to reliably generate population and abundance indices. This will support a sustainable, cost-effective long-term monitoring approach and leave a legacy of effective assessment techniques.
