Using directional acoustics for mapping the spatial distribution of low frequency mammals

Abstract

Long-term passive acoustic monitoring programs have been conducted over several years using directional acoustic recorders. The data from these recorders provide an indication of the direction to each detected signal, which includes calls from blue, fin, sei, and minke whales. The directional results provide new information on the spatial distribution of these animals, including the type of habitat by each species as well as the number of animals vocalizing in an area. Examples will be presented using data recorded at the edge of the Grand Banks as well as from a site off Savanah Ga in waters 800 m deep.Long-term passive acoustic monitoring programs have been conducted over several years using directional acoustic recorders. The data from these recorders provide an indication of the direction to each detected signal, which includes calls from blue, fin, sei, and minke whales. The directional results provide new information on the spatial distribution of these animals, including the type of habitat by each species as well as the number of animals vocalizing in an area. Examples will be presented using data recorded at the edge of the Grand Banks as well as from a site off Savanah Ga in waters 800 m deep.