Patterns of spatial and temporal distribution of humpback whales at the southern limit of the Southeast Pacific breeding area.

ABSTRACT: Understanding the patterns of spatial and temporal distribution in threshold habitats of highly migratory and endangered species is important for understanding their habitat requirements and recovery trends. Herein, we present new data about the distribution of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in neritic waters off the northern coast of Peru: an area that constitutes a transitional path from cold, upwelling waters to warm equatorial waters where the breeding habitat is located. Data was collected during four consecutive austral winter/spring seasons from 2010 to 2013, using whale-watching boats as platforms for research. A total of 1048 whales distributed between 487 groups were sighted. The spatial distribution of humpbacks resembled the characteristic segregation of whale groups

SUBMITTER: Guidino C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4229224 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature