Seal hunting in Newfoundland from the perspective of local people

Abstract

The hunting of harp (Pagophilus groenladicus) and grey (Halichoerus grypus) seal are part of Newfoundland and Labrador’s cultural heritage, tradition, and livelihood. Controversies, however, exist around seal hunting and the permanence of the industry, which is infused by the perceived impact of seals to the local fishery and the growing populations of these species off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador. To include coastal residents in the seal debate, a self-administered questionnaire was randomly distributed across 40 communities (38 rural and 2 urban). Overall, respondents valued seals for their ecological, intrinsic, cultural and instrumental values, expressed positive attitudes toward seals, believed seals were causing the decline of the Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua), held low trust toward the federal agency governing the sea, did not think the hunting was cruel and supported continuity of the activity. Results from structural equation modelling showed that support for stopping the seal hunt was positively influenced by beliefs about cruelty associated to hunting, and negatively influenced by acceptability of using seals for commercial and subsistence purposes. Statistical differences were found between rural and urban respondents, yet both groups held similar views. Findings suggested that despite positive ecological and intrinsic values and attitudes, seals were perceived as an abundant species that needs to be lethally controlled. The lack of trust on the government suggested that an open dialogue is necessary for an effecting seal management.