Distribution of the Spotted Seal, Phoca largha, along the Coast of Baekryongdo

This study investigated the distribution of spotted seals, Phoca largha, inhabiting the coast of Baekryongdo. Monitoring of spotted seals in Baekryongdo was conducted between June 2006 and November 2008, using a 5-ton fishing vessel 1hour before low tide. The monthly maximum number of observed seals was 274 in September 2006, 139 in September 2007, and 213 in August 2008. Average observed monthly counts were largest in August and September. Relatively more spotted seals were observed when there were few cloudy days and plenty of sunshine. Bycatch, stranding, and observations of spotted seals have been reported along the coast of the Korean peninsula since 2000, and spotted seals were observed four times in the western coastal region, three times in the southeastern region, and 12 times on the east coast. This suggests that spotted seals inhabiting Baekryongdo migrate to the East Sea via the West and South seas as individuals or in groups.