VIU Hosts Free Lecture on Decline of Steller Sea Lions Feb. 18

February 13, 2015 - 12:45pm

The dramatic decline of Steller sea lions in western Alaska has stimulated a wide range of studies as scientists struggle to understand the root causes of these declines.

For almost 20 years, Dr. David Rosen has led the University of BC’s (UBC) Marine Mammal Energetics and Nutrition Laboratory in investigations into the declines of Steller sea lions and northern fur seals in Alaska by conducting studies with trained, captive animals.

This unique research has provided insight into the nutrition and development in these species, and has provided valuable contributions to conservation plans for their recovery.

Dr. Rosen has studied the physiology and behaviour of marine mammals for 30 years, and his current research focuses on understanding the reasons for the dramatic population declines in Steller sea lions and northern fur seals in the North Pacific, primarily through studies of trained animals housed at the Vancouver Aquarium.

Dr. Rosen is the author of more than 60 scientific papers, and recently chaired the report “Developing Standards of Care for Marine Mammals in Captivity” for the Ontario government.

His talk, part of VIU's free Science & Technology Lecture Series, takes place Wednesday, February 18, from 7 - 8 pm at Vancouver Island University’s Nanaimo campus, 900 Fifth Street, Building 356, Room 109.

The lecture is open to everyone and there will be a question and answer session.

For more information and a complete schedule of upcoming talks in VIU’s weekly Science & Technology Lecture Series, please go to http://web.viu.ca/simmsw

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