Weddell seal locations in the Rauer Group recorded by the Frozen Sea Expedition of 1982-1984

Published: 2025-09-17

This is a polygon dataset digitised from a 1982-1984 Frozen Sea Expedition grid map (attached) showing locations where Weddell seals were recorded in the Rauer Group region, Prydz Bay, Antarctica. Weddell seal distribution data were mapped by members of the Oceanic Research Foundation Ltd. in collaboration with Harry Burton and Rhys Puddicombe (ANARE). This work was undertaken during the Frozen Sea Expedition to Prydz Bay which occurred between 1982-1984 and during which the expedition schooner 'Dick Smith Explorer' wintered in the Rauer Group. Locations of seal occurrence were marked on a base map of the Rauer Group on which a grid had been drawn. Data were recorded as 'Late Autumn /early Winter most common seal locations (July to September)' and 'Known pupping locations (October to December)'. The locations as highlighted on the map were digitised by the AADC in 2025 and are attached to this record as polygon data in a GeoPackage.