SMRU sperm whale distribution around the Balearic Islands 2003-2008 ...

• Main Authors: Pirotta, Enrico, Rendell, Luke, ACCOBAMS And WDCS
• Format: Dataset
• Language: English
• Published: OBIS-SEAMAP 2021
• Subjects: Occurrence,Vessels,Sightings; Observation; Occurrence; Luke; Physeter macrocephalus; Sperm whale
• Online Access: https://dx.doi.org/10.15468/xyv3tw; https://www.gbif.org/dataset/fb390f93-aacc-48be-b2fc-8f2b1d9c72b9

Original provider: Enrico Pirotta, Sea Mammal Research Unit (SMRU) Dataset credits: Luke Rendell and Enrico Pirotta, Sea Mammal Research Unit (SMRU) Abstract: Sperm whale Physeter macrocephalus habitat preferences are still poorly understood in the Mediterranean, despite the population being classified as ‘Endangered’ by the IUCN. Techniques to make the best use of multiple data sources are important in improving this situation. This work provides a detailed evaluation of sperm whale distribution and habitat use around the Balearic Islands using a novel analytical framework that combines transect and follow data while accounting for any autocorrelation present. During dedicated research cruises (2003 to 2008), sperm whales were located by listening at regular intervals along a search track and subsequently followed acoustically. Sperm whales were encountered 56 times and followed for periods ranging from a few hours to 3 d. Logistic Generalized Additive Models were used to model the probability of whale ...