Blount, D.,Minton, G.,Khan, Christin B.,Levenson, Jacob,Dulau, Violaine,Gero, S.,Parham, J.,Holmberg, Jason
Document presented to the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission no. 330, 2020.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Artificial intelligence, Flukebook, humpback dolphin, Humpback Whale, Indian Ocean, matching, megaptera novaeangliae, methodology, Oman, photo identification, Sousa chinensis
@techreport{,
title = {Flukebook – Continuing growth and technical advancement for cetacean photo identification and data archiving, including automated fin, fluke, and body matching},
author = {Blount, D.,Minton, G.,Khan, Christin B.,Levenson, Jacob,Dulau, Violaine,Gero, S.,Parham, J.,Holmberg, Jason},
url = {https://arabianseawhalenetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/sc_68b_ph_06_flukebook-developments-incl-aswn-and-indocet-1.pdf},
year = {2020},
date = {2020-01-01},
journal = {Paper presented to the meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},
number = {330},
pages = {13},
publisher = {IWC},
institution = {Document presented to the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},
abstract = {Flukebook (flukebook.org) is a non-profit, open source cetacean data archiving and
photo-identification tool developed under the larger Wildbook platform (wildbook.org) that uses
computer vision and machine learning to facilitate automated identification of individual animals
in the wild. In 2016, the IWC approved funding for the development of a regional data platform
for the Arabian Sea Whale Network (ASWN) to be implemented in collaboration with Wild Me
(wildme.org), the software and machine learning developers of Flukebook. This foundational
collaboration expanded the capabilities of Flukebook and served as the springboard for
subsequent years of growth in data and usage (e.g., by regional consortiums), as well as
significant technical improvements in 2019-2020 in the application of computer vision and
machine learning, specifically for North Atlantic and Southern right whales, humpback whales,
sperm whales, and multiple species of dolphins. Ongoing improvements in our community
support model and technical advances are bringing together industry, governmental, and NGO
collaborators in a global-scale platform for cetacean research.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Artificial intelligence, Flukebook, humpback dolphin, Humpback Whale, Indian Ocean, matching, megaptera novaeangliae, methodology, Oman, photo identification, Sousa chinensis},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Flukebook (flukebook.org) is a non-profit, open source cetacean data archiving and
photo-identification tool developed under the larger Wildbook platform (wildbook.org) that uses
computer vision and machine learning to facilitate automated identification of individual animals
in the wild. In 2016, the IWC approved funding for the development of a regional data platform
for the Arabian Sea Whale Network (ASWN) to be implemented in collaboration with Wild Me
(wildme.org), the software and machine learning developers of Flukebook. This foundational
collaboration expanded the capabilities of Flukebook and served as the springboard for
subsequent years of growth in data and usage (e.g., by regional consortiums), as well as
significant technical improvements in 2019-2020 in the application of computer vision and
machine learning, specifically for North Atlantic and Southern right whales, humpback whales,
sperm whales, and multiple species of dolphins. Ongoing improvements in our community
support model and technical advances are bringing together industry, governmental, and NGO
collaborators in a global-scale platform for cetacean research.
photo-identification tool developed under the larger Wildbook platform (wildbook.org) that uses
computer vision and machine learning to facilitate automated identification of individual animals
in the wild. In 2016, the IWC approved funding for the development of a regional data platform
for the Arabian Sea Whale Network (ASWN) to be implemented in collaboration with Wild Me
(wildme.org), the software and machine learning developers of Flukebook. This foundational
collaboration expanded the capabilities of Flukebook and served as the springboard for
subsequent years of growth in data and usage (e.g., by regional consortiums), as well as
significant technical improvements in 2019-2020 in the application of computer vision and
machine learning, specifically for North Atlantic and Southern right whales, humpback whales,
sperm whales, and multiple species of dolphins. Ongoing improvements in our community
support model and technical advances are bringing together industry, governmental, and NGO
collaborators in a global-scale platform for cetacean research.
Christiansen, F.,Baldwin, R.,Minton, G.,Collins, T.,Sprogis, K. R.,Rudd, J.,al Harthi, S.,Leslie, M.,Macdonald, D. W.,Willson, A.
Assessing the body condition of the world’s only non-migratory humpback whale population, the endangered Arabian Sea humpback whale Technical Report
no. 271, 2020, ISSN: SC_68b_cmp_23_rev1.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Body condition, drones, fitness, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, photo identification, photogrammetry, UAV
@techreport{,
title = {Assessing the body condition of the world’s only non-migratory humpback whale population, the endangered Arabian Sea humpback whale},
author = {Christiansen, F.,Baldwin, R.,Minton, G.,Collins, T.,Sprogis, K. R.,Rudd, J.,al Harthi, S.,Leslie, M.,Macdonald, D. W.,Willson, A.},
url = {https://arabianseawhalenetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/sc_68b_cmp_23_rev1_assessment-of-ashw-body-condition-in-oman-1.pdf},
issn = {SC_68b_cmp_23_rev1},
year = {2020},
date = {2020-01-01},
journal = {Paper presented to the meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},
number = {271},
pages = {11},
publisher = {IWC},
abstract = {Arabian Sea humpback whales have been a subject of conservation concern in the IWC since 1997. Research conducted primarily off the coast of Oman has contributed to understanding the population’s distribution, abundance, and conservation status, whilst information on the population’s health and specific threats is more limited. This study examines all available images of Arabian Sea humpback whales obtained between 2000 and 2018 for evidence of disease, predation, epizoites and human-induced scarring or injury to individuals. Tattoo-like skin disease was detected in 43.4% of 83 adult whales, with a roughly equal distribution between males and females. The prevalence of the disease was significantly higher in 2012-2018 (51.7%) than in 2000-2011 (24.1%). The lesions persisted for two to 14 years in 10 whales and progressed in prevalence and percentage of body cover in six of them. Killer whale tooth rakes were detected in 12% (95% CI 4.5-18%) of individuals based on examination of photographs showing the ventral surface of tail flukes (n=77), but no cookie cutter shark wounds were detected on any body parts of any of the whales examined. Roughly two thirds (66.6%: 95% CI 52-80%) of individuals represented by good quality photos of the caudal peduncle region (n=42) bore scarring patterns considered likely to be associated with entanglement in fishing gear, with no significant differences in entanglement scarring rates between males and females. Four individuals bore injuries consistent with vessel strikes and at least two individuals showed severe injuries and deformations likely to have been caused by interactions with vessels and/or fishing gear. Five documented entanglement events from Oman and Pakistan involved large-mesh nylon gillnets, which are known to be used extensively throughout the Arabian Sea. In light of this population’s endangered status, these findings indicate an urgent need to continue monitoring Arabian Sea humpback whales, with an emphasis on methods that allow continued and expanded assessment of health, body condition, and anthropogenic interactions, aimed toward designing effective conservation strategies to mitigate known threats. },
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Body condition, drones, fitness, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, photo identification, photogrammetry, UAV},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Arabian Sea humpback whales have been a subject of conservation concern in the IWC since 1997. Research conducted primarily off the coast of Oman has contributed to understanding the population’s distribution, abundance, and conservation status, whilst information on the population’s health and specific threats is more limited. This study examines all available images of Arabian Sea humpback whales obtained between 2000 and 2018 for evidence of disease, predation, epizoites and human-induced scarring or injury to individuals. Tattoo-like skin disease was detected in 43.4% of 83 adult whales, with a roughly equal distribution between males and females. The prevalence of the disease was significantly higher in 2012-2018 (51.7%) than in 2000-2011 (24.1%). The lesions persisted for two to 14 years in 10 whales and progressed in prevalence and percentage of body cover in six of them. Killer whale tooth rakes were detected in 12% (95% CI 4.5-18%) of individuals based on examination of photographs showing the ventral surface of tail flukes (n=77), but no cookie cutter shark wounds were detected on any body parts of any of the whales examined. Roughly two thirds (66.6%: 95% CI 52-80%) of individuals represented by good quality photos of the caudal peduncle region (n=42) bore scarring patterns considered likely to be associated with entanglement in fishing gear, with no significant differences in entanglement scarring rates between males and females. Four individuals bore injuries consistent with vessel strikes and at least two individuals showed severe injuries and deformations likely to have been caused by interactions with vessels and/or fishing gear. Five documented entanglement events from Oman and Pakistan involved large-mesh nylon gillnets, which are known to be used extensively throughout the Arabian Sea. In light of this population’s endangered status, these findings indicate an urgent need to continue monitoring Arabian Sea humpback whales, with an emphasis on methods that allow continued and expanded assessment of health, body condition, and anthropogenic interactions, aimed toward designing effective conservation strategies to mitigate known threats.
Minton, Gianna,van Bressem, M. F.,Willson, A.,Collins, T.,Al Harthi, S.,Sarrouf Willson, M.,Baldwin, R.,Leslie, M.,Robbins, J.,Van Waerebeek, K
Visual Health Assessment and evaluation of Anthropogenic threats to Arabian Sea Humpback Whales in Oman Technical Report
Document presented to the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission no. 418, 2020.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Barnacle, Bycatch, disease, Fisheries, Humpback Whale, killer whale, lesions, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, pathology, photo identification, predation, scarring, skin, tattoo
@techreport{,
title = {Visual Health Assessment and evaluation of Anthropogenic threats to Arabian Sea Humpback Whales in Oman},
author = {Minton, Gianna,van Bressem, M. F.,Willson, A.,Collins, T.,Al Harthi, S.,Sarrouf Willson, M.,Baldwin, R.,Leslie, M.,Robbins, J.,Van Waerebeek, K},
url = {https://arabianseawhalenetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/sc_68b_cmp_16_rev1_visual-health-assessment-of-ashw-in-oman-1.pdf},
year = {2020},
date = {2020-01-01},
journal = {Paper presented to the meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},
number = {418},
pages = {25},
publisher = {IWC},
institution = {Document presented to the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},
abstract = {Arabian Sea humpback whales have been a subject of conservation concern in the IWC since 1997. Research conducted primarily off the coast of Oman has contributed to understanding the population’s distribution, abundance, and conservation status, whilst information on the population’s health and specific threats is more limited. This study examines all available images of Arabian Sea humpback whales obtained between 2000 and 2018 for evidence of disease, predation, epizoites and human-induced scarring or injury to individuals. Tattoo-like skin disease was detected in 43.4% of 83 adult whales, with a roughly equal distribution between males and females. The prevalence of the disease was significantly higher in 2012-2018 (51.7%) than in 2000-2011 (24.1%). The lesions persisted for two to 14 years in 10 whales and progressed in prevalence and percentage of body cover in six of them. Killer whale tooth rakes were detected in 12% (95% CI 4.5-18%) of individuals based on examination of photographs showing the ventral surface of tail flukes (n=77), but no cookie cutter shark wounds were detected on any body parts of any of the whales examined. Roughly two thirds (66.6%: 95% CI 52-80%) of individuals represented by good quality photos of the caudal peduncle region (n=42) bore scarring patterns considered likely to be associated with entanglement in fishing gear, with no significant differences in entanglement scarring rates between males and females. Four individuals bore injuries consistent with vessel strikes and at least two individuals showed severe injuries and deformations likely to have been caused by interactions with vessels and/or fishing gear. Five documented entanglement events from Oman and Pakistan involved large-mesh nylon gillnets, which are known to be used extensively throughout the Arabian Sea. In light of this population’s endangered status, these findings indicate an urgent need to continue monitoring Arabian Sea humpback whales, with an emphasis on methods that allow continued and expanded assessment of health, body condition, and anthropogenic interactions, aimed toward designing effective conservation strategies to mitigate known threats. },
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Barnacle, Bycatch, disease, Fisheries, Humpback Whale, killer whale, lesions, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, pathology, photo identification, predation, scarring, skin, tattoo},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Arabian Sea humpback whales have been a subject of conservation concern in the IWC since 1997. Research conducted primarily off the coast of Oman has contributed to understanding the population’s distribution, abundance, and conservation status, whilst information on the population’s health and specific threats is more limited. This study examines all available images of Arabian Sea humpback whales obtained between 2000 and 2018 for evidence of disease, predation, epizoites and human-induced scarring or injury to individuals. Tattoo-like skin disease was detected in 43.4% of 83 adult whales, with a roughly equal distribution between males and females. The prevalence of the disease was significantly higher in 2012-2018 (51.7%) than in 2000-2011 (24.1%). The lesions persisted for two to 14 years in 10 whales and progressed in prevalence and percentage of body cover in six of them. Killer whale tooth rakes were detected in 12% (95% CI 4.5-18%) of individuals based on examination of photographs showing the ventral surface of tail flukes (n=77), but no cookie cutter shark wounds were detected on any body parts of any of the whales examined. Roughly two thirds (66.6%: 95% CI 52-80%) of individuals represented by good quality photos of the caudal peduncle region (n=42) bore scarring patterns considered likely to be associated with entanglement in fishing gear, with no significant differences in entanglement scarring rates between males and females. Four individuals bore injuries consistent with vessel strikes and at least two individuals showed severe injuries and deformations likely to have been caused by interactions with vessels and/or fishing gear. Five documented entanglement events from Oman and Pakistan involved large-mesh nylon gillnets, which are known to be used extensively throughout the Arabian Sea. In light of this population’s endangered status, these findings indicate an urgent need to continue monitoring Arabian Sea humpback whales, with an emphasis on methods that allow continued and expanded assessment of health, body condition, and anthropogenic interactions, aimed toward designing effective conservation strategies to mitigate known threats.
Willson, A.,Minton, A. Gianna.,Collins, T. ,Al Harthi, S.,Sarrouf Willson, M.,Cerchio, S,Braulik, G.,Baldwin, R.
Oman Research Update; documenting cetacean diversity and blue whale feeding habitat in Dhofar, southern Oman Technical Report
no. 505, 2019.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: acoustic, Arabian Sea, balaenoptera musculus, Blue whale, Distribution, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, photo identification
@techreport{,
title = {Oman Research Update; documenting cetacean diversity and blue whale feeding habitat in Dhofar, southern Oman},
author = {Willson, A.,Minton, A. Gianna.,Collins, T. ,Al Harthi, S.,Sarrouf Willson, M.,Cerchio, S,Braulik, G.,Baldwin, R.},
url = {https://arabianseawhalenetworkdotorg.files.wordpress.com/2019/06/sc_68a_cmp_08_oman-research-update.pdf},
year = {2019},
date = {2019-01-01},
urldate = {2019-01-01},
journal = {Paper presented to the 2019 meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},
number = {505},
pages = {14},
publisher = {IWC},
abstract = {Cetacean research has been conducted in Dhofar, southern Oman, since 2000 During this time efforts have been
primarily focused on documenting the distribution, abundance, and ecology of an Endangered population of
Arabian Sea humpback whales (ASHWs). The research has revealed the Hallaniyats Bay (including our study
site measuring approximately 10,000km2
) to be a habitat of importance for reproductive and foraging related
behaviours. Simultaneously the field surveys have revealed high cetacean diversity in the area, with over 18
species documented at the site, out of a total of 22 species known for the Arabian peninsula between 2003 and
2016. Short opportunistic surveys conducted March 2018 to April 2019 continue to provide evidence of the
ecological importance of the area for a diverse array of species, including several species of large baleen whales
(including humpback whales, Bryde’s whales, and blue whales) as well as a range of large, medium and small
odontocetes. Most recently, in April 2019, blue whales were observed over a three-day period, engaged in
behaviour associated with feeding. As well as documenting this important ecological event the team was able to
collect photographic, tissue and faecal samples that are expected to help resolve issues related to taxonomy and
population structure of blue whales in the northern Indian Ocean. The high levels of cetacean diversity and the
regular occurrence of species of scientific and conservation interest documented within a recent Important
Marine Mammal Area workshop suggest that the area warrants conservation management attention to maintain
its current ‘near-wilderness’ state. },
keywords = {acoustic, Arabian Sea, balaenoptera musculus, Blue whale, Distribution, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, photo identification},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Cetacean research has been conducted in Dhofar, southern Oman, since 2000 During this time efforts have been
primarily focused on documenting the distribution, abundance, and ecology of an Endangered population of
Arabian Sea humpback whales (ASHWs). The research has revealed the Hallaniyats Bay (including our study
site measuring approximately 10,000km2
) to be a habitat of importance for reproductive and foraging related
behaviours. Simultaneously the field surveys have revealed high cetacean diversity in the area, with over 18
species documented at the site, out of a total of 22 species known for the Arabian peninsula between 2003 and
2016. Short opportunistic surveys conducted March 2018 to April 2019 continue to provide evidence of the
ecological importance of the area for a diverse array of species, including several species of large baleen whales
(including humpback whales, Bryde’s whales, and blue whales) as well as a range of large, medium and small
odontocetes. Most recently, in April 2019, blue whales were observed over a three-day period, engaged in
behaviour associated with feeding. As well as documenting this important ecological event the team was able to
collect photographic, tissue and faecal samples that are expected to help resolve issues related to taxonomy and
population structure of blue whales in the northern Indian Ocean. The high levels of cetacean diversity and the
regular occurrence of species of scientific and conservation interest documented within a recent Important
Marine Mammal Area workshop suggest that the area warrants conservation management attention to maintain
its current ‘near-wilderness’ state.
primarily focused on documenting the distribution, abundance, and ecology of an Endangered population of
Arabian Sea humpback whales (ASHWs). The research has revealed the Hallaniyats Bay (including our study
site measuring approximately 10,000km2
) to be a habitat of importance for reproductive and foraging related
behaviours. Simultaneously the field surveys have revealed high cetacean diversity in the area, with over 18
species documented at the site, out of a total of 22 species known for the Arabian peninsula between 2003 and
2016. Short opportunistic surveys conducted March 2018 to April 2019 continue to provide evidence of the
ecological importance of the area for a diverse array of species, including several species of large baleen whales
(including humpback whales, Bryde’s whales, and blue whales) as well as a range of large, medium and small
odontocetes. Most recently, in April 2019, blue whales were observed over a three-day period, engaged in
behaviour associated with feeding. As well as documenting this important ecological event the team was able to
collect photographic, tissue and faecal samples that are expected to help resolve issues related to taxonomy and
population structure of blue whales in the northern Indian Ocean. The high levels of cetacean diversity and the
regular occurrence of species of scientific and conservation interest documented within a recent Important
Marine Mammal Area workshop suggest that the area warrants conservation management attention to maintain
its current ‘near-wilderness’ state.
Robinson, David P.,Jaidah, Mohammed Y.,Bach, Steffen,Lee, Katie,Jabado, Rima W.,Rohner, Christoph A.,March, Abi,Caprodossi, Simone,Henderson, Aaron C.,Mair, James M.,Ormond, Rupert,Pierce, Simon J.
Population Structure, Abundance and Movement of Whale Sharks in the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman Journal Article
In: PLoS ONE, vol. 11, no. 445, pp. e0158593, 2016.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Gulf, Distribution, Gulf of Oman, Movements, photo identification, Sea of Oman, whale sharks
@article{,
title = {Population Structure, Abundance and Movement of Whale Sharks in the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman},
author = {Robinson, David P.,Jaidah, Mohammed Y.,Bach, Steffen,Lee, Katie,Jabado, Rima W.,Rohner, Christoph A.,March, Abi,Caprodossi, Simone,Henderson, Aaron C.,Mair, James M.,Ormond, Rupert,Pierce, Simon J.},
url = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0158593},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-01-01},
journal = {PLoS ONE},
volume = {11},
number = {445},
pages = {e0158593},
publisher = {Public Library of Science},
abstract = {Data on the occurrence of whale sharks, Rhincodon typus , in the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman were collected by dedicated boat surveys and via a public-sightings scheme during the period from 2011 to 2014. A total of 422 individual whale sharks were photo-identified from the Arabian Gulf and the northern Gulf of Oman during that period. The majority of sharks (81%, n = 341) were encountered at the Al Shaheen area of Qatar, 90 km off the coast, with the Musandam region of Oman a secondary area of interest. At Al Shaheen, there were significantly more male sharks (n = 171) than females (n = 78; X2 = 17.52, P < 0.05). Mean estimated total length (TL) for sharks was 6.90 m ± 1.24 (median = 7 m; n = 296). Males (7.25 m ± 1.34; median = 8 m, n = 171) were larger than females (6.44 m ±1.09; median = 7 m, n = 78; Mann-Whitney U test, p < 0.01). Of the male sharks assessed for maturity 63% were mature (n = 81), with 50% attaining maturity by 7.29 m and 100% by 9.00 m. Two female sharks of >9 m individuals were visually assessed as pregnant. Connectivity among sharks sighted in Qatari, Omani and UAE waters was confirmed by individual spot pattern matches. A total of 13 identified sharks were re-sighted at locations other than that at which they were first sighted, including movements into and out of the Arabian Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz. Maximum likelihood techniques were used to model an estimated combined population for the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman of 2837 sharks ± 1243.91 S.E. (95% C.I. 1720–6295). The Al Shaheen aggregation is thus the first site described as being dominated by mature males while the free-swimming pregnant females are the first reported from the Indian Ocean.
},
keywords = {Arabian Gulf, Distribution, Gulf of Oman, Movements, photo identification, Sea of Oman, whale sharks},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Data on the occurrence of whale sharks,
Willson, A.,Baldwin, R.,Cerchio, S,Collins, T.,Findlay, K.,Gray, H.,Godley, B.J.,Al Harthi, S.,Kennedy, A.,Minton, G.,Sucunza, F.,Zerbini, A. N.,Witt, M.J.
Research update on satellite tagging studies of the Arabian Sea humpback whales in the Sultanate of Oman Technical Report
no. 500, 2016.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Distribution, feeding, humpback whales, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, photo identification, Satellite telemetry, seasonal change
@techreport{,
title = {Research update on satellite tagging studies of the Arabian Sea humpback whales in the Sultanate of Oman},
author = {Willson, A.,Baldwin, R.,Cerchio, S,Collins, T.,Findlay, K.,Gray, H.,Godley, B.J.,Al Harthi, S.,Kennedy, A.,Minton, G.,Sucunza, F.,Zerbini, A. N.,Witt, M.J.},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-01-01},
journal = {Report presented to the Scientific Committee meeting of the International Whaling Commission},
number = {500},
pages = {23},
publisher = {IWC},
abstract = {Three surveys focusing on Arabian Sea humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) were conducted from
two field sites off the southern coast of Oman between February 2014 and December 2015. We present a
summary of boat-based survey data and satellite telemetry activities generated by these surveys. Our
findings provide insight into the spatial ecology of Arabian Sea humpback whales (ASHW) and salient
threats to the population. Ninety hours of on-effort vessel-based surveys resulted in 29 sightings of ASHW
groups. Analysis of fluke and dorsal fin images indicates that these sightings involved 40 different
individuals. Tagging efforts resulted in successful deployment of nine satellite tags, six of which provided
data on dive behaviour and vertical distribution within the water column. Tagged whales that were
resighted (n = 5) during subsequent surveys exhibited signs of healing following tag rejection. Satellite
tracking data reveals whales ranging within a 1,150 km corridor along the southern coast of Oman and
northern Yemen, the first transboundary movement recorded for this population. Individuals spent an
average of 83% (SD = 17%) of their time engaged in localised or ‘area restricted search’ (ARS) that is
likely associated with foraging, breeding and resting behaviour. Tracked individuals spent much of their
time over the continental shelf with 73% of satellite-derived locations attributed to waters <200 m depth.
Gathered dive data reveal that tracked whales spent 83% of time in the top 20 m of the water column, most
frequently (39%; SD = 11%) engaged in dives with durations between 5 and 10 minutes. The average
maximum depth recorded by the tags was 199 m (SD = 95 m). Further spatial analysis indicated that 35%
of location points in the study were within the Gulf of Masirah, habitat that co-occurs with emerging
industrial activity and existing artisanal fisheries. Dive behavior in offshore waters beyond the continental
shelf also likely indicates foraging activity. The growing knowledge base for this population supports need
for on-going research and putative mitigation measures to address a wide spectrum of anthropogenic threats
for humpback whales in Oman and the wider region.},
keywords = {Distribution, feeding, humpback whales, megaptera novaeangliae, Oman, photo identification, Satellite telemetry, seasonal change},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Three surveys focusing on Arabian Sea humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) were conducted from
two field sites off the southern coast of Oman between February 2014 and December 2015. We present a
summary of boat-based survey data and satellite telemetry activities generated by these surveys. Our
findings provide insight into the spatial ecology of Arabian Sea humpback whales (ASHW) and salient
threats to the population. Ninety hours of on-effort vessel-based surveys resulted in 29 sightings of ASHW
groups. Analysis of fluke and dorsal fin images indicates that these sightings involved 40 different
individuals. Tagging efforts resulted in successful deployment of nine satellite tags, six of which provided
data on dive behaviour and vertical distribution within the water column. Tagged whales that were
resighted (n = 5) during subsequent surveys exhibited signs of healing following tag rejection. Satellite
tracking data reveals whales ranging within a 1,150 km corridor along the southern coast of Oman and
northern Yemen, the first transboundary movement recorded for this population. Individuals spent an
average of 83% (SD = 17%) of their time engaged in localised or ‘area restricted search’ (ARS) that is
likely associated with foraging, breeding and resting behaviour. Tracked individuals spent much of their
time over the continental shelf with 73% of satellite-derived locations attributed to waters <200 m depth.
Gathered dive data reveal that tracked whales spent 83% of time in the top 20 m of the water column, most
frequently (39%; SD = 11%) engaged in dives with durations between 5 and 10 minutes. The average
maximum depth recorded by the tags was 199 m (SD = 95 m). Further spatial analysis indicated that 35%
of location points in the study were within the Gulf of Masirah, habitat that co-occurs with emerging
industrial activity and existing artisanal fisheries. Dive behavior in offshore waters beyond the continental
shelf also likely indicates foraging activity. The growing knowledge base for this population supports need
for on-going research and putative mitigation measures to address a wide spectrum of anthropogenic threats
for humpback whales in Oman and the wider region.
two field sites off the southern coast of Oman between February 2014 and December 2015. We present a
summary of boat-based survey data and satellite telemetry activities generated by these surveys. Our
findings provide insight into the spatial ecology of Arabian Sea humpback whales (ASHW) and salient
threats to the population. Ninety hours of on-effort vessel-based surveys resulted in 29 sightings of ASHW
groups. Analysis of fluke and dorsal fin images indicates that these sightings involved 40 different
individuals. Tagging efforts resulted in successful deployment of nine satellite tags, six of which provided
data on dive behaviour and vertical distribution within the water column. Tagged whales that were
resighted (n = 5) during subsequent surveys exhibited signs of healing following tag rejection. Satellite
tracking data reveals whales ranging within a 1,150 km corridor along the southern coast of Oman and
northern Yemen, the first transboundary movement recorded for this population. Individuals spent an
average of 83% (SD = 17%) of their time engaged in localised or ‘area restricted search’ (ARS) that is
likely associated with foraging, breeding and resting behaviour. Tracked individuals spent much of their
time over the continental shelf with 73% of satellite-derived locations attributed to waters <200 m depth.
Gathered dive data reveal that tracked whales spent 83% of time in the top 20 m of the water column, most
frequently (39%; SD = 11%) engaged in dives with durations between 5 and 10 minutes. The average
maximum depth recorded by the tags was 199 m (SD = 95 m). Further spatial analysis indicated that 35%
of location points in the study were within the Gulf of Masirah, habitat that co-occurs with emerging
industrial activity and existing artisanal fisheries. Dive behavior in offshore waters beyond the continental
shelf also likely indicates foraging activity. The growing knowledge base for this population supports need
for on-going research and putative mitigation measures to address a wide spectrum of anthropogenic threats
for humpback whales in Oman and the wider region.
Willson, A.,Baldwin, R.,Cerchio, S,Collins,T.,Findlay, K.,Gray, H.,Godley, B.J.,Al Harthi, S.,Kennedy, A.,Minton, G.,Zerbini, A.N.,Witt, M.J.
Research update of satellite tracking studies of male Arabian Sea humpback whales; Oman Technical Report
no. 501, 2015, ISBN: SC/66a/SH/22 Rev 1.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, mitigation, Oman, photo identification, Satellite telemetry, Threats
@techreport{,
title = {Research update of satellite tracking studies of male Arabian Sea humpback whales; Oman},
author = {Willson, A.,Baldwin, R.,Cerchio, S,Collins,T.,Findlay, K.,Gray, H.,Godley, B.J.,Al Harthi, S.,Kennedy, A.,Minton, G.,Zerbini, A.N.,Witt, M.J.},
issn = {SC/66a/SH/22 Rev 1},
year = {2015},
date = {2015-01-01},
number = {501},
pages = {12},
abstract = {Satellite tags were deployed on three adult male humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) encountered off the southern coast of Oman during March 2015. This represents the second year of a telemetry study that began with the tagging of three whales in 2014 and forms part of a broader scientific research programme initiated in 2000 to understand the population biology and spatial ecology of Endangered Arabian Sea humpback whales. Tags were deployed in an area commonly associated with the seasonal presence of singing whales. Resightings of whales tagged in 2014 (n=3), supported by photographic evidence of two animals, showed normal healing of epidermal tissue around the tag site over a period of 9 to 11 months. A repeat tagging of one known individual (tagged in 2014) as well as two other known individuals in the Oman photo-ID database provides further evidence for high site fidelity of males to the tagging site as well as the Gulf of Masirah. Habitat utilization inferred from telemetry and vessel survey data have confirmed the urgent need for mitigation measures in high-risk areas and have led to an improved understanding of humpback whale spatial ecology across the wider region.},
keywords = {Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, mitigation, Oman, photo identification, Satellite telemetry, Threats},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Satellite tags were deployed on three adult male humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) encountered off the southern coast of Oman during March 2015. This represents the second year of a telemetry study that began with the tagging of three whales in 2014 and forms part of a broader scientific research programme initiated in 2000 to understand the population biology and spatial ecology of Endangered Arabian Sea humpback whales. Tags were deployed in an area commonly associated with the seasonal presence of singing whales. Resightings of whales tagged in 2014 (n=3), supported by photographic evidence of two animals, showed normal healing of epidermal tissue around the tag site over a period of 9 to 11 months. A repeat tagging of one known individual (tagged in 2014) as well as two other known individuals in the Oman photo-ID database provides further evidence for high site fidelity of males to the tagging site as well as the Gulf of Masirah. Habitat utilization inferred from telemetry and vessel survey data have confirmed the urgent need for mitigation measures in high-risk areas and have led to an improved understanding of humpback whale spatial ecology across the wider region.
Nanayakkara, Ranil,Kusuminda, Tharaka,Jefferson, Thomas
Can the Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin ( Journal Article
In: Aquatic Mammals, vol. 40, no. 178, pp. 398-406, 2014.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Distribution, humpback dolphin, Indian Ocean, Indian Ocean humpback dolphin, Individual identification, photo identification, population, Sousa plumbea, Sri Lanka
@article{,
title = {Can the Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin (},
author = {Nanayakkara, Ranil,Kusuminda, Tharaka,Jefferson, Thomas},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
journal = {Aquatic Mammals},
volume = {40},
number = {178},
pages = {398-406},
abstract = {Until the last few years, the only records of Indian Ocean humpback dolphins (Sousa plumbea) in Sri Lanka were a small number of older stranding records and one unconfirmed sighting, but repeated verified sightings have been made since the early 2000s in the Puttalam Lagoon area of northwestern Sri Lanka. To determine dolphin status and distribution patterns, we conducted monthly surveys of the lagoon from July 2010 to June 2011 and sighted humpback dolphins in the lagoon in every month of the year. Repeated sightings of the same six individuals were made; and in March 2011, one of these humpback dolphins was killed by dynamite fishing. It appears that the population is very small, possibly now consisting only of these five individuals, and is resident in the lagoon. Although it is likely the species was more widespread and abundant in the past, it appears that Puttalam Lagoon may be the only location where this species persists in Sri Lanka at present. Additional research is needed to investigate possible mixing with populations in India, and urgent conservation measures are recommended to ensure the long-term survival of this enigmatic species in Sri Lanka.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Distribution, humpback dolphin, Indian Ocean, Indian Ocean humpback dolphin, Individual identification, photo identification, population, Sousa plumbea, Sri Lanka},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Until the last few years, the only records of Indian Ocean humpback dolphins (Sousa plumbea) in Sri Lanka were a small number of older stranding records and one unconfirmed sighting, but repeated verified sightings have been made since the early 2000s in the Puttalam Lagoon area of northwestern Sri Lanka. To determine dolphin status and distribution patterns, we conducted monthly surveys of the lagoon from July 2010 to June 2011 and sighted humpback dolphins in the lagoon in every month of the year. Repeated sightings of the same six individuals were made; and in March 2011, one of these humpback dolphins was killed by dynamite fishing. It appears that the population is very small, possibly now consisting only of these five individuals, and is resident in the lagoon. Although it is likely the species was more widespread and abundant in the past, it appears that Puttalam Lagoon may be the only location where this species persists in Sri Lanka at present. Additional research is needed to investigate possible mixing with populations in India, and urgent conservation measures are recommended to ensure the long-term survival of this enigmatic species in Sri Lanka.
Nanayakkara, Ranil P,Kusuminda, Tharaka,Jefferson, Thomas A
Can the Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin ( Journal Article
In: Aquatic Mammals, vol. 40, no. 182, pp. 398, 2014, ISBN: 0167-5427.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, humpback dolphin, Indian Ocean, photo identification, population status, sousa, Sousa plumbea, Sri Lanka, Threat assessment
@article{,
title = {Can the Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin (},
author = {Nanayakkara, Ranil P,Kusuminda, Tharaka,Jefferson, Thomas A},
issn = {0167-5427},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
journal = {Aquatic Mammals},
volume = {40},
number = {182},
pages = {398},
abstract = { Until the last few years, the only records of Indian Ocean humpback dolphins (Sousa plumbea) in Sri Lanka were a small number of older stranding records and one unconfirmed sighting, but repeated verified sightings have been made since the early 2000s in the Puttalam Lagoon area of northwestern Sri Lanka. To determine dolphin status and distribution patterns, we conducted monthly surveys of the lagoon from July 2010 to June 2011 and sighted humpback dolphins in the lagoon in every month of the year. Repeated sightings of the same six individuals were made; and in March 2011, one of these humpback dolphins was killed by dynamite fishing. It appears that the population is very small, possibly now consisting only of these five individuals, and is resident in the lagoon. Although it is likely the species was more widespread and abundant in the past, it appears that Puttalam Lagoon may be the only location where this species persists in Sri Lanka at present. Additional research is needed to investigate possible mixing with populations in India, and urgent conservation measures are recommended to ensure the long-term survival of this enigmatic species in Sri Lanka.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, humpback dolphin, Indian Ocean, photo identification, population status, sousa, Sousa plumbea, Sri Lanka, Threat assessment},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Until the last few years, the only records of Indian Ocean humpback dolphins (Sousa plumbea) in Sri Lanka were a small number of older stranding records and one unconfirmed sighting, but repeated verified sightings have been made since the early 2000s in the Puttalam Lagoon area of northwestern Sri Lanka. To determine dolphin status and distribution patterns, we conducted monthly surveys of the lagoon from July 2010 to June 2011 and sighted humpback dolphins in the lagoon in every month of the year. Repeated sightings of the same six individuals were made; and in March 2011, one of these humpback dolphins was killed by dynamite fishing. It appears that the population is very small, possibly now consisting only of these five individuals, and is resident in the lagoon. Although it is likely the species was more widespread and abundant in the past, it appears that Puttalam Lagoon may be the only location where this species persists in Sri Lanka at present. Additional research is needed to investigate possible mixing with populations in India, and urgent conservation measures are recommended to ensure the long-term survival of this enigmatic species in Sri Lanka.
Baldwin, R.,Collins, T.J.Q.,Minton, G.,Willson, A.,Corkeron, P.
Arabian Sea humpback whales 2011 update: resights, bubble feeding and hotspots Journal Article
In: Document presented to the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission, vol. SC/54/O4, no. 23, pp. 5, 2011.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, blue whales, breeding, feeding, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, photo identification, sperm whales
@article{,
title = {Arabian Sea humpback whales 2011 update: resights, bubble feeding and hotspots},
author = {Baldwin, R.,Collins, T.J.Q.,Minton, G.,Willson, A.,Corkeron, P.},
year = {2011},
date = {2011-01-01},
journal = {Document presented to the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},
volume = {SC/54/O4},
number = {23},
pages = {5},
abstract = {The 2010 report of the Scientific Committee (IWC/62/Rep 1) expressed grave concern for the resident ‘Arabian
Sea humpback whale population’. The Committee made strong recommendations for additional research to
monitor the status of this Endangered population which has a restricted range, is reproductively isolated, has a
very small population size (n=82 (95% CI=60-111)) and is known to interact with humans with negative
consequences. A survey during March 2011 resulted in 47 sightings of humpback whales representing
approximately12 individuals. Sightings included a mother-calf pair, observation of competitive behaviour and
frequent feeding including use of ‘bubble cloud’ and ‘bubble net’ structures, all of which have been rarely
witnessed in Oman on previous surveys. At least three known individuals were identified, among them those that
have been re-sighted as many as four times previously and those that have been previously photographed at the
same location. Song was recorded on numerous occasions from the survey vessel and one Cornell MARU was
deployed resulting in acquisition of over 20 days of continuous recordings which are undergoing analysis.
Threats from fishing activity, coastal development and vessel traffic were documented, and an apparent attack on
a humpback whale by false killer whales was witnessed. Numerous other cetacean species were recorded,
including other large whales (blue whales, Bryde’s whales and sperm whales – all with calves – and numerous
small cetaceans). The majority of sightings were clustered around Ras Hasik and all feeding behaviour, including
that by humpback, blue and Bryde’s whales occurred within 2-3 kilometers of this apparent ‘hotspot’. Further
research is recommended which may be best determined via the Conservation Management Planning process.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, blue whales, breeding, feeding, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, photo identification, sperm whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The 2010 report of the Scientific Committee (IWC/62/Rep 1) expressed grave concern for the resident ‘Arabian
Sea humpback whale population’. The Committee made strong recommendations for additional research to
monitor the status of this Endangered population which has a restricted range, is reproductively isolated, has a
very small population size (n=82 (95% CI=60-111)) and is known to interact with humans with negative
consequences. A survey during March 2011 resulted in 47 sightings of humpback whales representing
approximately12 individuals. Sightings included a mother-calf pair, observation of competitive behaviour and
frequent feeding including use of ‘bubble cloud’ and ‘bubble net’ structures, all of which have been rarely
witnessed in Oman on previous surveys. At least three known individuals were identified, among them those that
have been re-sighted as many as four times previously and those that have been previously photographed at the
same location. Song was recorded on numerous occasions from the survey vessel and one Cornell MARU was
deployed resulting in acquisition of over 20 days of continuous recordings which are undergoing analysis.
Threats from fishing activity, coastal development and vessel traffic were documented, and an apparent attack on
a humpback whale by false killer whales was witnessed. Numerous other cetacean species were recorded,
including other large whales (blue whales, Bryde’s whales and sperm whales – all with calves – and numerous
small cetaceans). The majority of sightings were clustered around Ras Hasik and all feeding behaviour, including
that by humpback, blue and Bryde’s whales occurred within 2-3 kilometers of this apparent ‘hotspot’. Further
research is recommended which may be best determined via the Conservation Management Planning process.
Sea humpback whale population’. The Committee made strong recommendations for additional research to
monitor the status of this Endangered population which has a restricted range, is reproductively isolated, has a
very small population size (n=82 (95% CI=60-111)) and is known to interact with humans with negative
consequences. A survey during March 2011 resulted in 47 sightings of humpback whales representing
approximately12 individuals. Sightings included a mother-calf pair, observation of competitive behaviour and
frequent feeding including use of ‘bubble cloud’ and ‘bubble net’ structures, all of which have been rarely
witnessed in Oman on previous surveys. At least three known individuals were identified, among them those that
have been re-sighted as many as four times previously and those that have been previously photographed at the
same location. Song was recorded on numerous occasions from the survey vessel and one Cornell MARU was
deployed resulting in acquisition of over 20 days of continuous recordings which are undergoing analysis.
Threats from fishing activity, coastal development and vessel traffic were documented, and an apparent attack on
a humpback whale by false killer whales was witnessed. Numerous other cetacean species were recorded,
including other large whales (blue whales, Bryde’s whales and sperm whales – all with calves – and numerous
small cetaceans). The majority of sightings were clustered around Ras Hasik and all feeding behaviour, including
that by humpback, blue and Bryde’s whales occurred within 2-3 kilometers of this apparent ‘hotspot’. Further
research is recommended which may be best determined via the Conservation Management Planning process.