Surface temperature patterns in seals and sea lions: A validation of temporal and spatial consistency
We assessed infrared thermography (IRT) as a tool for evaluating spatial and temporal surface temperature patterns in juvenile female harbor seals (Phoca vitulina, n=6) and adult female Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus, n=2). Following a technical assessment of the influence of environmental parameters on the specific camera to be used, we identified regional and seasonal […]
Ambient temperature does not affect the tactile sensitivity of mystacial vibrissae in harbour seals
Vibrissae provide pinnipeds with tactile information primarily in the aquatic environment, which is characterized by its high thermal conductivity and large potential cooling power. Since studies of thermal effects on human tactile sensitivity have revealed that cooling below normal skin temperature impairs sensitivity, the present study investigates the tactile sensitivity of the vibrissal system of […]