Microsatellites were used to investigate fine‐scale spatial and temporal genetic structure of a gray seal breeding colony, using samples collected throughout the colony (1997) and more extensive local sampling (2000–2002). Previous behavior of breeding seals on North Rona, including philopatry and high breeding site fidelity, suggested female kin may cluster together. However, low F ST scores indicated no genetic differentiati...

Molecular studies of pinniped breeding systems exhibit a broad range of agreement and disagreement with observational indices of male breeding success. Grey seal studies have reported considerable discrepancies between genetic and behavioural paternity measures that have been interpreted as evidence of previously unidentified male strategies and/or tactics. Therefore, these studies have the power to fundamentally alter our per...