Thesis (M.A.)--Boston University / PLEASE NOTE: Boston University Libraries did not receive an Authorization To Manage form for this thesis or dissertation. It is therefore not openly accessible, though it may be available by request. If you are the author or principal advisor of this work and would like to request open access for it, please contact us at open-help@bu.edu. Thank you. / A study was done to compare the variability of skull dimensions of Mirounge angustirostris at the time of its near extinction with that of the present rapidly increasing population. Twenty measurements were made upon each of twenty-one skulls, and sixteen ratios developed from these measurements. The age, sex and year of collection of each specimen was recorded. The specimens were divided into an 1800 (near extinction) and 1900 (present) group on the basis of collection date. The ratio vs. age was plotted for the males and females of each year group. The regression line for each year group was calculated. The two populations were then compared as to variability by determining the variation around this regression line. No significant difference in variability was found. / 2031-01-01