Canadian Seal Harvest at a Glance

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Sustainable

The following graph shows estimates of the total population for Northwest Atlantic harp seals from 1952 to 2013. The population in Canada is currently at approximately 7.3 million animals, over three times what it was in the 1970’s.

Estimates of total population for Northwest Atlantic harp seals for 1952-2013 

Precautionary approach

The precautionary approach requires acting with caution in the absence of certain, reliable, or adequate scientific information, with the objective that a population remains above a pre-established scientific reference point.

Total allowable catches are determined annually according to the precautionary approach and are informed by the latest science advice (including changes in reproductive rates, the effects of climate change, ice conditions, etc.). Population estimates are revised annually through a scientific peer-review process that includes departmental scientists as well as experts from academia, non-government organizations and, in certain cases, the industry. These estimates rely on information from various sources, including regular overflights of whelping and breeding areas, sample collection and analysis (e.g. reproductive rates), and comprehensive surveys conducted every three or four years. 

Ecosystems

We know that seals exist in a highly complex ecosystem and Canadian scientists continue to study the relationship between them and other species with which they interact, including certain species commercially harvested in Canada (for example, Atlantic cod).
An individual harp seal can consume up to one tonne of food each year (mostly fish and invertebrates) about half of which is consumed in southern Canadian waters. Individual Grey seals require approximately 1 to 2 tonnes of prey annually (3-6 kg/day), all in southern Canadian waters. While much research remains to be done, we do know that grey seals in the Southern Gulf of St. Lawrence, for example, are a major factor limiting the recovery of important cod stocks in that region.

Humane

The three-step process was developed and implemented based on the recommendations from the Independent Veterinarians Working Group.

Sealers must follow a strict three-step process that is as humane – if not more so – than most other methods of dispatching wild or domesticated animals in the world. This process ensures that animals are killed quickly and humanely.

This three-step process is prescribed in Canada’s Marine Mammal Regulations and applies to all sealers with commercial or personal use licenses. The Regulations also stipulate that only seals that have reached the age of self sufficiency are taken. It is illegal in Canada to harvest juvenile seal-pups, also known as whitecoats or bluebacks.

Strictly Regulated and Enforced

In a 2008 court decision, a sealer was fined $25,000 and was prohibited from participating in the first (and most lucrative) day of the 2009 harvest.

Canadian Fishery Officers closely monitor the hunt to ensure that the regulations and license conditions are followed. They do so with regular patrols and inspections at sea, on land and in the air, as well as with the help of independent, professional at-sea observers and information gathered from the public. Violations are taken very seriously and penalties can include fines, seizure of catches and/or equipment, and license suspensions.

A highly mobile enforcement team maintains a presence on the ice floes 24 hours a day, 7 days a week throughout the sealing season, with the assistance of the Canadian Coast Guard and the support of local police forces.

Economically and Socially Significant

“When there is a good seal harvest, it can account for up to 30% of my salary…Just in the Magdalen Islands there are 900 sealing licences. 900 licences mean 900 families.” Denis Longuépée, Sealer, Magdalen Islands, Quebec.

In Canada’s remote coastal and northern communities, sealing is an important part of the way of life and a much needed source of income for thousands of families. Beyond fur, seals are also used to produce meat products and oil products rich in omega-3 fatty acids. The revenues generated from this activity are an integral and vital component of the annual income earned by sealers.

Know the facts; decide for yourself!