The Controversial Commercial Seal Hunt

The Tragic Tale of the Commercial Seal Hunt

They are cute and fluffy, their flippers wave in the most innocent way, and their eyes can melt even the most heartened of hearts. There is no doubt that harp seals have won the sympathy of many people and it seems monstrous to kill them for their skin...

For centuries, seals have been a vital part of the North Atlantic’s ecosystem, playing their role as graceful swimmers, agile hunters, and symbols of resilience in icy waters. Yet, these magnificent animals have faced an ongoing threat: the commercial seal hunt.

Every year, thousands of helpless harp seals are subjected to inhumane slaughter, only for their fur. This tragic event occurs in places like the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, where these innocent animals are driven to the brink of extinction. As passionate advocates for wildlife, it’s our responsibility to raise awareness and take action to stop this senseless violence.

On this page, I want to bring attention to the harsh reality of harp seal hunting and show how everyone, including you can make a difference. Through understanding the consequences, sharing the truth, and supporting conservation efforts, we can ensure that these creatures with nothing but innocence continue to thrive in their natural habitats. 🦭

The commercial seal hunt in Canada is one of the largest and most controversial slaughters of marine mammals in the world. It takes place primarily off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador, targeting harp seals, with most of the seals hunted being pups as young as three weeks old. Though these young seals are no longer "whitecoats" (protected under Canadian law), they are still far too young to fend for themselves in the wild.

Every year, the Canadian government allows the killing of up to 400,000 seals, turning the pristine icy landscapes into bloodbaths. Entire families of seals—pups who haven’t even had their first proper swim—are slaughtered in front of one another. Harrowing reports and footage reveal that many of these seals are skinned alive, enduring inimaginable pain before their deaths with some only dying many hours later at the bottom of the ocean. Despite global condemnation, this tragedy continues under the guise of tradition and economic support for coastal communities.

The hunt is especially disturbing because it often targets seals who haven’t even had the chance to mature. They have only just become independent from their mothers for survival and haven’t really learned yet how to thrive in the wild on their own. These helpless pups are dragged into a violent death, while their mothers helplessly watch, unable to protect them. The emotional toll on seal families is devastating, as the hunt tears apart entire groups, leaving them to die in a sea of blood.

The methods used in the seal hunt have been widely criticized. Footage from animal rights groups shows seals being struck with hakapiks (a club-like tool with a sharp metal spike), or shot at point-blank range. Though the Canadian government claims to enforce regulations to prevent cruelty, these efforts are often insufficient. The seals’ suffering is largely ignored by those who claim the hunt is “humane.” These practices not only cause immense pain and suffering to the seals but also show a complete disregard for the sanctity of life in the natural world.

The hunt stems from the demand for seal pelts, oils, and other products. Historically, the sealing industry provided livelihoods for coastal communities. However, over time, global markets for seal products have declined significantly due to bans in countries like the United States and the European Union. Despite this, the hunt continues—subsidized by the Canadian government—fueled more by tradition and politics than economic necessity.

The Fight for Change

Efforts to end the commercial seal hunt have gained significant momentum over the years. Advocacy organizations like the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) and Humane Society International have been at the forefront of exposing the brutality of the hunt. These organizations work tirelessly to document the hunt, educate the public, and pressure governments to end this horrific practice.

On the global stage, countries have increasingly turned away from seal products. The United States, the European Union, and Russia have all implemented bans on the trade of seal products, sending a powerful message to the Canadian government. Public opinion is shifting, with younger generations advocating for a future where wildlife is protected, not exploited for fashion or profit. The hunt is becoming less acceptable to the international community, and its existence relies more on outdated political and economic interests than on any real need.

While the Canadian government insists on continuing the hunt, the truth is that it is not economically viable in a world that no longer accepts the cruelty of seal hunting. With the global market for seal products dwindling and alternative livelihoods for coastal communities available, it is time for Canada to close this chapter of its history.

How You Can Help

Every voice and every action counts in the fight to end the commercial seal hunt. Here are some ways you can make a difference:

1. Donate: Your support can help fund the ongoing work of organizations like IFAW that are working on the front lines to stop the seal hunt. Every dollar contributes to the fight to protect seals and other wildlife.

2. Spread Awareness: Sharing stories like this one can raise awareness about the brutal realities of the hunt. The more people know, the more pressure there is on governments and businesses to take action.

3. Advocate: Write to lawmakers, urging them to end the seal hunt once and for all. Ask them to take responsibility for protecting wildlife and end subsidies that support this cruel practice.

4. Support Alternatives: Support sustainable practices in coastal communities, and encourage alternatives to seal hunting for livelihoods. Solutions exist that can provide economic opportunities without exploiting animals.

Harp seals are not just one of the most cutest symbols of the Arctic — they are crucial members of the ecosystem, playing a vital role in the health of our oceans. By spreading awareness, signing petitions, supporting organizations like IFAW or Sea Shepherd, and refusing to purchase seal products, we can protect the future of these cute animals. Together, we can make sure the harp seal’s voice is heard

Let’s stand up for these innocent lives. Share this message and help protect the harp seals from a future of slaughter. The world needs to know, and you can be part of that change. 

Check out the commercial seal hunt on WildlifeoFundraiser to check out some reliable charities