The programme will also provide novel ecological knowledge about this species and essential management information for local, national and international authorities.

Sub-goals of the programme include the study of 1) local population structure 2) haul-out behaviour 3) prey availability and territory size 4) density and abundance 5) population parameters 1980’s versus the present 6) seasonal diet 7) “health status” and condition 8) contaminant exposure and effects and 9) and training and education of young researchers.

Most of the field work for this programme took place 2002-2005 – but one field element has been postponed until 2007 because of poor ice conditions on the west coast of Svalbard in 2006. This NPI programme is financially assisted by the Norwegian Research Council (MARE).