Seasonal distribution of ringed seal in the White Sea monitored by satellite tagging

Data on the seasonal distribution and ecology of ringed seals (Pusa hispida) were obtained from the results of seal tagging with satellite telemetry transmitters (STT) in the White Sea. STT "Pulsar" worked in the Argos system. Catching and tagging of ringed seals were carried out in the Dvina Bay of the White Sea in autumn 2008 and 2016 and in the summer of 2020. 5 tags were installed on seals of different ages. It was shown in the summer the ringed seals did not make long movements and remained on the littoral. The seals moved long distances in autumn, the average daily distance between observation points was 43 km per day. The ringed seal preferred areas with open water and the sea edge of landfast ice in winter. The ringed seal could stay for more than two months in the pelagic zone above the depth of 20 m. Priority directions of movement haven’t been identified. We suggest this feature of the seals' behavior in the White Sea is associated with the seasonal distribution of food.