Facts About Seals in Lake Superior
Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake in North America, spanning a total area of 82,414 square miles – roughly the size of the state of South Carolina. With such immense size, it’s no surprise that this Great Lake is teeming with life, from native fish to marine mammals.
Tied with Lake Huron, Lake Superior stands as the deepest lake in the US, with its deepest point reaching 1,290 feet below sea level. Given its vastness, is it possible for this lake to home any seals? With the country’s freshwater source surrounded by the Canadian provinces of Ontario and Manitoba, to the north, one may attempt to find seals residing in this massive body of water.
Surprisingly enough, Lake Superior does in fact contain a population of seals. This Canadian inhabitant is considered to be the only one in the Great Lakes region, as the cold waters of these lakes don’t normally allow these creatures to thrive in such an environment.
The seals that inhabit Lake Superior are known as “ringed seals”. These sleek creatures are relatively small in comparison to other seals, and their bodies measure roughly seven feet in length, weighing 200 pounds. They have distinctive features, most notably their spotted fur, and get their name from the dark rings on the sides of their bodies. They feed mostly on fish and molluscs and can dive up to depths of 2,300 feet.
While selas can often adapt and thrive in different environments, the cold temperatures of Lake Superior make for a very uncomfortable and uncertain habitation for any sea mammal. Thus, it would be reasonable to assume that the population of seal in this area is only small – likely not more 200.
So, where do these fresh water seals come from? Generally these animals migrate to the icy waters of the Great Lakes from Canada’s Hudson Bay every winter. Few stay throughout spring and summer, and it is speculated by some that the population of seals observed in Lake Superior is a result of the animals simply being stuck in the area due to harsh weather or frozen bodies of water.
Being called the “natural harbor seal of the Great Lakes”, these mammals are protected under the 1973 Endangered Species Act. Alongside their unique presence in the area, they hold immense cultural significance among the First Nations living in the Great Lakes region.
Threats To Seals in Lake Superior
Though seals in Lake Superior have been protected by law, there is still a very real danger that they face in the lake. This danger stems from two major sources – climate change and man-made pollution.
Climate change has been an increasing cause of concern over the past few decades, and has had visible effects on our winter temperatures. With melting ice forming more accessible entry points for seals and other sea animals, many more species are potentially migrating to Lake Superior without the proper information or habitat to survive in.
Additionally, the pollution and contamination of Lake Superior is also a permanent risk to the existing seal population. Any corporate or industrial waste that is pouring into the lake can lead to difficult and sometimes fatal living conditions for the Lake Superior seals. Not just water pollution, but noise pollution is also present in the area, and can disrupt the hunting and feeding habits of these animals – leading to an ultimately diminished population.
The efforts made by researchers, organizations and private citizens have certainly improved conditions for the seals, however there is still a ways to go before they feel entirely safe and secure in their habitat in Lake Superior.
Preserving Seals in Lake Superior
Although the dangers posed to the seals of Lake Superior are of a real and urgent concern, there are several initiatives and organizations working diligently towards the preservation of this species. There are specific federal laws, such as the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which are designed to ensure the safety of all marine mammal populations, including those in Lake Superior.
At the same time, many organizations have taken the liberty of carrying out educational programs to inform the public of the situation and get them involved. The Voice of the Sea is a very popular initiative which allows students to connect with the marine environment surrounding Lake Superior, and learn more about the unique species present in their lake.
The public is also frequently encouraged to get involved with the clean-up and conservation efforts for Lake Superior. Organizations such as the Lake Superior Watershed Conservancy are in constant need of volunteers, who are both eager and willing to restore and maintain the waters of the lake. This proves to be an invaluable effort in the preservation of the seal population, as polluted waters and invasive species can quickly become fatal for the marine mammals.
Conclusion
The Great Lakes region is a unique and scientifically understood area, and any life residing here is cause for intrigue and excitement. From the many fish species to the elusive ringed seals in Lake Superior, it is impressive to see the resilience and adaptability of these creatures in such a foreign and challenging environment.
Unfortunately, this population needs help and protection in order to survive over the coming years. With the right care and education of local citizens, this Great Lake will hopefully be a safe and steady environment for the Lake Superior seals to thrive in.
Transformation of The Great Lakes
The Great Lakes have been around for awhile, but the last century has seen a drastic transformation in their shape and size. With the increasing population and expansion of industry in these areas, the immensity of the five lakes has slowly been declining, along with their importance as an economic resource.
Though the lakes are still vast and deep, the drastic decline of the ship building, commercial fishing and logging industries that used to rely on the lakes for their operations has made their impact on the economic landscape insignificant. As opposed to years prior, the ports of these Great Lakes are now filled with pleasure boats and ferries – drastically different from the steamships and freighters from those times.
This transformation has also caused a decline in the species occupying the lakes. With different types of shipping come different sources of pollution, and the use of hazardous materials in certain industries has long posed a threat to surrounding waters, leading to a decline in fish stocks and population of other species.
In recent times, the United States and Canada have both put in motion a number of regulations to combat environmental degradation and to protect the species at risk – such as the seals of Lake Superior. However, a complete transformation of the environment and its quality may take decades or even centuries to achieve.
Protection of Native Species
The Great Lakes region is home to some of the world’s most iconic species, many of which are native to the area and are slowly on their way to extinction. With the increasing competition for food and space, many of these species are seen struggling to survive in the unnatural environment set up by human activity.
Organizations both in the US and Canada are doing their best to protect the native species of the Great Lakes by educating the local population and enforcing regulations to prevent any further disruption or stress to these creatures. Groups such as the Great Lakes United have been attempting to bring common sense fisheries regulations to the area.
Along with enforcing regulations, this organization has also been making an effort to restore the natural habitats of these native species by reintroducing certain animals and plants to their home. This process requires time and resources, and the damage caused by human activity may take centuries to heal.
The Impact Of Great Lakes Tourism
The Great Lakes have long been popular with tourists, who frequently visit the area to observe the magnificent scenery and scenic shorelines that these lakes have to offer. Such tourism has proved to be an economic resource for the many towns within the region, however there are a few drawbacks.
The influx of people from different parts of the country can often result in the contamination of local waters, as well as an disturbance of the native population occupying the lakes – most notably the seals of Lake Superior. As such, regulation must be in place to ensure that these creatures are not disturbed, and that their habitats remain intact and safe.
On the other hand, tourism helps to raise awareness of the native species and the regions environment. Visitors are often encouraged to observe the local flora and fauna, and to practice environmental protection philosophy while doing so. By following such regulations and showing respect to the environment, people can help to safeguard and preserve the native species of the Great Lakes.
Conclusion
The Great Lakes region has long been an important part of the global environment and known for its vast fresh water reserves. With its stunning shorelines and delicate ecosystems, these lakes are home to many interesting and unique creatures, such as the seals of Lake Superior.
The impact of human activity on this region can no-doubt be seen in the environmental degradation and loss of species, and decisions must be made in order to protect and restore the native flora and fauna of these lakes. Through awareness and education, we can help to preserve the habitats and creatures of the Great Lakes, and prevent any further harm to this region.
