Implantation of subcutaneous heart rate data loggers in southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina)
Résumé
Unlike most phocid species (Phocidae), Mirounga
leonina (southern elephant seals) experience a
catastrophic moult where they not only replace their hair
but also their epidermis when ashore for approximately
1 month. Few studies have investigated behavioural and
physiological adaptations of southern elephant seals during
the moult fast, a particularly energetically costly life
cycle’s phase. Recording heart rate is a reliable technique
for estimating energy expenditure in the field. For the first
time, subcutaneous heart rate data loggers were successfully
implanted during the moult in two free-ranging
southern elephant seals over 3–6 days. No substantial
postoperative complications were encountered and consistent
heart rate data were obtained. This promising surgical
technique opens new opportunities for monitoring heart
rate in phocid seals