Sex‐specific mercury levels in skin samples of southern elephant seals (<i>Mirounga leonina</i>) at Isla 25 de Mayo (King George Island), Antarctic Peninsula

Abstract The southern elephant seal (SES; Mirounga leonina ) has a circumpolar distribution, breeding mainly on sub‐Antarctic islands and making long trips between or molting foraging areas. Most individuals from colonies in the South Shetland Islands (western Antarctic Peninsula; WAP) are distributed Specially Protected Areas (ASPA). Despite these protected habitats, pollutants can reach such remote areas far away emission sources, affecting local fauna. To assess possible mercury (Hg) contamination SES, we analyzed skin samples collected free‐ranging using biopsy PAXARMS system Isla 25 de Mayo/King George Island (62°15′S, 58°39′W; ASPA 132). Hairless were to determine total‐Hg (THg) concentrations, which ranged 145 ng/g 1,915 ( M = 730, SD 388 ng/g), showing significant differences sexes, with adult‐females having higher concentrations (range 306–1,915, 859, 427 dw) than subadult‐males 145–1,645, 629, 329 dw). These may be explained by feeding‐niche partitioning sexes. Females prefer mesopelagic prey associated sea‐ice WAP, enriched methylmercury. results provide insight regarding Hg top predators like need monitor for potential effects of marine mammals.