Characteristics of narwhal (Monodon monoceros) sightings in east and west Greenland waters (2007-2008) ...

• Main Authors: Heide-Jørgensen, Mads Peter, Laidre, Kristin L, Burt, M L, Borchers, D L, Marques, Tiago A, Hansen, R G, Rasmussen, M, Fossette, S
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: PANGAEA 2010
• Subjects: International Polar Year 2007-2008 IPY; Global warming; Greenland; International Polar Year; inuit; IPY; Monodon monoceros; narwhal*
• Online Access: https://dx.doi.org/10.1594/pangaea.811015; https://doi.pangaea.de/10.1594/PANGAEA.811015

Narwhals (Monodon monoceros L.) occur in the Atlantic sector of the Arctic where for centuries they have been subject to subsistence hunting by Inuit in Greenland and Canada. Scientific advice on the sustainable levels of removals from narwhal populations provides the basis for quotas implemented in both Greenland and Canada. The scientific advice relies heavily on extensive aerial surveys that are the only feasible way to acquire data on narwhal densities and abundance throughout their range. In some areas lack of information on abundance, in combination with high exploitation levels, has caused conservation concerns leading to restrictions on the international trade in narwhal tusks. Narwhals also are regarded as highly sensitive to habitat disturbance caused by global warming. This study analyzed data from aerial sighting surveys covering four major narwhal hunting grounds in Greenland. The surveys were conducted as double observer experiments with 2 independent observation platforms, 1 at the front and 1 ... : Data extracted in the frame of a joint ICSTI/PANGAEA IPY effort, see http://doi.pangaea.de/10.1594/PANGAEA.150150 ...