Abstract
AbstractBeaked whales are cryptic and difficult to study species, often distributed in deep offshore waters and only briefly visible at the surface. A diverse range of cetacean species has been documented in the Bay of Biscay, including several species of beaked whales. However, little is known about how persistent their presence is. Citizen science data collected during ferry-based surveys between 2006 and 2018 were analysed to investigate how encounter rates varied across space and time, and their drivers for beaked whale species. Approximately 244,400 km were surveyed, and there were 419 encounters with beaked whales recorded including Cuvier’s beaked whales, (n = 260), Northern bottlenose whales (n = 19), Sowerby’s beaked whales (n = 13), and True’s beaked whales (n = 1). Generalized Additive Models revealed that encounters were generally more frequent in the southern bay, on northern facing slopes, with all species except Sowerby’s showing a preference for both deep waters and shallow shelf waters. Animals were recorded in each of the eight surveyed months, suggesting that beaked whales may be present year-round, with increased encounter rates in summer months. This study is the first to indicate that beaked whales may persist in this area throughout the year, which is key information for appropriate management.
Highlights
Due to consistent over-use of marine resources in recent decades, conservation is paramount to safeguard the environment for present and future generations (Lester et al, 2009; Roff & Zacharias, 2011)
Research is essential for effective conservation, especially concerning species abundance and distribution parameters which are key for informing appropriate management (Arcangeli et al, 2016; Laran et al, 2017)
The aim of this study is to examine spatio-temporal patterns of beaked whale occurrence within the Bay of Biscay
Summary
Due to consistent over-use of marine resources in recent decades, conservation is paramount to safeguard the environment for present and future generations (Lester et al, 2009; Roff & Zacharias, 2011). Research is essential for effective conservation, especially concerning species abundance and distribution parameters which are key for informing appropriate management (Arcangeli et al, 2016; Laran et al, 2017). Whilst there are previous studies that provided foundations for a diversity of observations and recommendations to support cetacean conservation in Europe, key research gaps remain (Hammond et al, 2009, 2013; Laran et al, 2017; Rogan et al, 2017; Matear et al, 2019). Insufficient knowledge regarding habitat preference and cetacean distribution impedes management and limits effective conservation (Kiszka et al, 2007). This partly reflects aspects of cetacean ecology, and logistical limitations such as offshore surveys being expensive (Barlow & Gisiner, 2006; Arcangeli et al, 2016; Hooker et al, 2019)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
