Story perspectives

Researchers Tag Seals to Study Thwaites Glacier Changes

2/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ji-Yeon Cheon and Hyunjae Chung, doctoral candidates at Seoul National University, tag Weddell seals near Thwaites Glacier to study warming oceans' effect on their behavior.
Cheon used a blowpipe to sedate a seal and attach a device that logs the animal's movements and water properties.
Warm water eroding the glacier also brings nutrients from the seafloor, affecting the seals' food sources.
Cheon noted significant environmental changes in the Amundsen Sea region.

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Story summary

Ji-Yeon Cheon and Hyunjae Chung, doctoral candidates at Seoul National University, tag Weddell seals near Thwaites Glacier to study warming oceans' effect on their behavior.
Cheon used a blowpipe to sedate a seal and attach a device that logs the animal's movements and water properties.
Warm water eroding the glacier also brings nutrients from the seafloor, affecting the seals' food sources.
Cheon noted significant environmental changes in the Amundsen Sea region.