Decadal-scale phenology and seasonal climate drivers of migratory baleen whales in a rapidly warming marine ecosystem.

ABSTRACT: Species' response to rapid climate change can be measured through shifts in timing of recurring biological events, known as phenology. The Gulf of Maine is one of the most rapidly warming regions of the ocean, and thus an ideal system to study phenological and biological responses to climate change. A better understanding of climate-induced changes in phenology is needed to effectively and adaptively manage human-wildlife conflicts. Using data from a 20+ year marine mammal observation program, we tested the hypothesis that the phenology of large whale habitat use in Cape Cod Bay has changed and is related to regional-scale shifts in the thermal onset of spring. We used a multi-season occupancy model to measure phenological shifts and evaluate trends in the date of peak habitat use for Nort

SUBMITTER: Pendleton DE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9541444 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature