A new home in Patagonia for the southern elephant seal
- Published: 2017
- Authors: Juan Capella, Frederick Toro, Alejandro Kusch, Jorge Gibbons
- Download the full study here
Study summary
For more than a century, the southern elephant seal (Mirounga leonina) had disappeared from the continental coast of Chile. But this study marks a key finding: the discovery of a New breeding colony in Caleta Juárez, Muñoz Gamero peninsula, in the Almirante Montt Gulf, Magallanes region.
The initial discovery was in March 2014, with 23 individuals, including offspring. Since then, it has been regularly monitored until 2016.
What did they find?
In 16 sampling days between 2014 and 2016, it was confirmed that:
– The group is reproductive, with births registered during 4 consecutive seasons.
– An upward trend was observed in the number of animals: from 23 in 2014 to 46 in 2016.
– The area has ideal conditions: wide beach, low slope, wetlands, dense vegetation, and low human disturbance.
This would be the northernmost colony of elephant seals in the Southeast Pacific known to date, 325 km to the north from other existing colonies within the Admiralty.
Después de la publicación, el monitoreo estival ha continuado hasta el verano de 2025, con una población entre 32 y 61 animales, siempre con crías, entre 2 y 6 por temporada.
Where is this colony?
Caleta Juárez, Poca Esperanza estuary, Muñoz Gamero peninsula, Magallanes Region (52°14'S – 73°07'W)
Another group was also detected in the estuary obstruction, which could indicate the presence of a connected population unit between both colonies.
Why is it important to protect it?
The area has historically been sparsely populated by the species due to intensive hunting in past centuries.
The growth and permanence of this colony indicates a possible natural recolonization of the species in Patagonia.
The pressure from unregulated tourism could put its permanence at risk, as has already happened in previous colonies.
Researchers warn of urgent need to long-term monitoring, tourism regulation and genetic studies that help to understand its origin.
Whalesound and its role in marine monitoring
Our team actively collaborates in the observation and protection of marine species in Patagonia. Sailing with Whalesound means supporting the conservation of mammals like the elephant seal in their natural environment.
