The physiology, behavior, and survival of Weddell seals in their first year of life is the subject of this scientific investigation. For Weddell seals, this period encompasses the brief period of maternal dependence (6 weeks), development of swimming and diving abilities and dispersal from natal colonies as shore-fast ice turns to pack ice and open water. It is the least known aspect of the life cycle of any mammal and likely to be the most important period affecting their survival to adulthood and eventual reproductive success. The following areas will be emphasized: 1) physical and physiological changes related to maternal investment, weaning, and development of diving abilities; 2) the ontogeny of diving behavior and dispersal of pups in their first year using satellite telemetry. 3) comparative study of diving and movements by older juveniles (1-2 years old) using satellite telemetry. 4) correlative study of the maternal, physical, physiological and behavioral factors that affect the movements, condition possibly the survival of pups in their first year of life; and 5) continued measurement of population size, survival rates and productivity of Weddell seals in McMurdo Sound as a continued long term study of their population dynamics and context for interpreting interannual variation in condition or behavior of juveniles.
