Commercial Collection of Pinnipeds in the California Channel Islands,1877-1981

Abstract

From at least 1877 to 1981, Santa Barbara, California was the center for collecting-pinnipeds for zoos, circuses, oceanaria and research institutions worldwide. Three primary collectors, with numerous assistants, dominated this trade for a century. Their methods and equipment were trade secrets handed down from each collector to his successor. This paper reviews the commercial collection of pinnipeds at the northern Channel Islands both for historical interest and for researchers interested in various collection techniques.