Michael K. Stoskopf, DVM1; Steve Zimmerman, PhD2
Male fur seals from 2 to 5 years old being harvested for pelts were
examined for evidence of ocular anterior segment disease. Two thousand six hundred and
fifty-three seals (2,653-approximately 10% of the total harvest) were examined from 12 haulout
areas during 24 harvests. Iatrogeruc ocular trauma occurred in at least one eye in 42% of the
animals examined. Only animals with both eyes intact and undamaged by the killing process were
included in the study. One thousand five hundred and one (1,501) animals met these conditions.
Seventy-three of these (4.8%) exhibited eye lesions. Six had bilateral corneal pitting, and one
animal had bilateral central corneal scars of 8 and 6 diameters. Corneal scars were the most
frequently observed abnormality (39/3002 eyes) followed closely by prominent lens sutures
(37/3002 eyes). Partial iris depigmentations were observed in 13 animals and all were unilateral
with no evidence of trauma. Cataracts were observed in 23 animals. All were unilateral and
concurrent with corneal scars and/or iris damage indicative of traumatic origin. Roughed
anterior lens capsules were observed in 7 individuals. No corneal edema was found.