There is reason to fear some species at the top of the food chain in Antarctica are similarly affected, said Dr. Pal Prestrud, director of research at the institute. The institute had applied to the Norwegian Environment Department for approval to kill 20 each of crabeater, weddell, leopard and Antarctic fur seals. Also taken would have been 20 each of snow petrels, Antarctic petrels, adelie penguins and chinstrap penguins, and 10 south polar skuas. U.S. Scientists study Weddell seals in Antarctica. Hood placed over head causes seal remain still.
Scientists then tag rear fins.
The seals and birds were to be killed along an ocean transect between Bouvet Island and the coast of Dronning Maud Land in eastern Antarctica, so analysis of their livers could be carried out by scientists from the Akvaplan-NIVA institute. Dr. Prestrud said he had no doubt it was ethically acceptable to kill the animals. Still, he confirmed the Norwegian Ministry of the Environment had rejected the application, and the work was cancelled. The main reason for their decision seems to be the fear of a political storm after several international environmental organisations and media have made inquiries about the project to the ministry. Dr. Prestrud said he was surprised by the reaction of some environment groups, but Greenpeace welcomed the decision.