Position, swimming direction and group size of fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) in the presence of a fast-ferry in the Bay of Biscay

• Published in: Oceanologia
• Main Authors: Aniceto, Ana Sofia Albuquerque Lima, Carroll, JoLynn, Tetley, Michael J, van Oosterhout, Cock
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier 2016
• Subjects: VDP::Mathematics and natural science: 400::Zoology and botany: 480::Marine biology: 497; Fin whales; Ship strikes; Behavior; Balaenoptera physalus; Fin whale
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10037/10488; https://doi.org/10.1016/j.oceano.2016.02.002

Published version, source at http://doi.org/10.1016/j.oceano.2016.02.002 . License – CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 . We analyze group size, swimming direction and the orientation of fin whales relative to a fast ferry in the Bay of Biscay. Fin whale groups (≥3 individuals) were on average closer to the vessel than single individuals and pairs (F1,114 = 4.94, p = 0.028) and were more often observed within a high-risk angle ahead of the ferry (binomial probability: p = 7.60 × 10−11). Also, small groups tend to swim in the opposite direction (heading of 180°) of the ferry at the starboard side (binomial test: p = 6.86 × 10−5) and at the portside (binomial test: p = 0.0156). These findings provide valuable information to improve shipping management procedures in areas at high risk for collisions.