Abstract: To assess public opinion on the level of protection given to seals in Scotland and on the controversial issue of seal culls, a survey was conducted in south-western Scotland at various locations in the rural county of Argyll and the city of Glasgow in 2001. This study found that most participants were of the opinion that the current level of protection given to seals was sufficient. In addition, the survey found that the majority of the participants were against the concept of seal culling to protect fisheries. Analysis of responses showed that both female and younger participants were more likely to be against the introduction of seal culls, but, surprisingly, neither interest in marine or environmental issues nor the occupation of the participants, including involvement in the fishing industry, affected the level of support or opposition. Numerous responses were given by participants to support and qualify their opinions, and these are summarised.

Key Words: SEAL; MARINE MAMMAL; SCOTLAND; PUBLIC OPINION; CULLING; MANAGEMENT

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1578/AM.31.1.2005.104

Page Numbers: 104 – 109