Seals and the Marine Ecosystem: Attitudes, Ecological Benefits/Risks and Lethal Management Views

Abstract

ABSTRACT Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, seals have recolonized historic ranges along the New England coast after near extirpation from bounty hunting in the 19th and 20th centuries. On Cape Cod, Massachusetts, concerns that rebounding seal populations damage fisheries and draw great white sharks have led some to call for a seal cull. Surveys on Cape Cod found strong opposition to lethal management among residents and tourists, and neutrality, on average, among commercial fishers. For all three samples, lethal management support was substantially explained by general attitudes toward seals and partially mediated by specific ecological benefits and risks associated with seals. Positive attitudes toward seals and perceived ecosystem benefits reduced support for lethal management among residents, tourists and commercial fishers. Negative attitudes and perceived ecological risks of seals increased lethal management support. These findings suggest communication of the ecological benefits of species can enhance continued marine mammal conservation.