Seals on Thin Ice: An Effect of Climate Change

Submitted by Amy Hartley
Phone: 474-5823
02/10/06

The Arctic’s sea ice ecosystem is threatened. Global climate change has warmed the region to the point where sea ice is melting, reducing habitat for Alaska’s seal and walrus populations. Alaska is home to eight species of pinnipeds--seals, sea lions, and walruses--and scientists are worried that as the sea ice diminishes, so may the animals that call it home.

Brendan P. Kelly, a scientist at the University of Alaska Southeast, is hoping to better understand the impacts of melting snow and sea ice on Arctic seal populations. He works with Inupiat hunters and NOAA’s National Marine Mammal Laboratory, using satellite-linked transmitters and DNA analysis to monitor seals’ response to their diminishing habitat. Kelly, the dean of arts and sciences and vice provost for research at UAS, will discuss his research in a free one-hour lecture on Feb. 14. "Seals on Thin Ice: An Effect of Climate Change" begins at 7 p.m. in the Westmark Gold Room. Get there early to check out educational displays and demonstrations. All ages are welcome!

This is the final lecture in the 2006 Science for Alaska Lecture Series, an annual event coordinated and sponsored by the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, along with support from BP and ConocoPhillips.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Information on all lectures and presenters in the 2006 Science for Alaska Lecture Series may be found online at www.scienceforalaska.com.

CONTACT: Brendan P. Kelly, Dean of Arts and Sciences and Vice Provost for Research, UAS: (907) 796-6510 Amy Hartley, Geophysical Institute Information Officer: (907) 474-5823