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Molting seals shed mercury along with fur

Toxic metal from hair adds to seawater contamination, study finds

A northern elephant seal shedding

MOLTING METAL   Northern elephant seals collect toxic mercury in their hair; shedding then boosts local pollution levels, a study finds.

Dr. James Harvey

By Beth Mole

- More than 2 years ago

After smoke stacks and industrial waste, researchers can add lounging seals to the list of mercury polluters.