Seal Pup Culls and Commercial Hunting

Commercial seal hunts continue in Canada, Norway, and Namibia, raising persistent welfare concerns about killing methods and the targeting of very young animals.

Key Facts

Canada allows the killing of harp seals from 25 days of age when they molt their white coat
Over 400,000 seals were killed in the 2004 Canadian harp seal hunt — a record high
Hakapiks — clubs with a metal hook — are the primary killing instrument in most seal hunts
Independent veterinary observations have found unacceptably high rates of animals being skinned while conscious
The EU banned the import of commercial seal products in 2009 following welfare concerns

Welfare Considerations

Independent veterinary assessments of commercial seal hunts have documented high proportions of animals killed by incomplete blows that fail to render them immediately unconscious. Pups separated from mothers during hunts experience acute fear responses. Killing methods that are difficult to verify or standardize across large, mobile hunts in challenging ocean conditions make consistent humane slaughter nearly impossible to guarantee. The commercial viability of seal products has collapsed in most markets, raising questions about whether the hunts can be justified on economic grounds.

What You Can Do

Oppose commercial seal product imports and advocate for trade bans
Support the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society and other campaign organizations
Choose cosmetics and omega-3 supplements not derived from seal products
Engage politically in countries that permit commercial seal hunting