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Effects of diel and seasonal cycles on the dive duration of the minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata)

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  20 March 2001

K.A. Stockin ,
R.S. Fairbairns ,
E.C.M. Parsons  and
D.W. Sims
K.A. Stockin
Affiliation:
The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust, Main Street, Tobermory, Isle of Mull, Argyll, Scotland, UK Department of Zoology, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Avenue, Aberdeen, AB24 2TZ, UK
R.S. Fairbairns
Affiliation:
Sea Life Surveys, Torrbreac, Dervaig, Isle of Mull, Argyll, Scotland, UK
E.C.M. Parsons
Affiliation:
The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust, Main Street, Tobermory, Isle of Mull, Argyll, Scotland, UK
D.W. Sims
Affiliation:
Department of Zoology, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Avenue, Aberdeen, AB24 2TZ, UK Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom, Citadel Hill, Plymouth, Devon, PL1 2PB, UK
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Abstract

Minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) surfacing intervals were recorded over a period of three years in the coastal waters of Mull, Coll and the Small Isles, in the north-west of Scotland. Significant differences in surfacing intervals were noted both throughout the day and throughout the year. Surfacing intervals were shortest at noon and in the months of June and July. Surfacing intervals were longest both mid-morning and mid-afternoon and during May and August. Differences in surfacing intervals were interpreted to be the result of ecological changes such as different foraging strategies. Consequently, the results of this study have an impact on the methodologies and designs of minke whale sightings surveys.

Type
Short Communication
Information
Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom , Volume 81 , Issue 1 , February 2001 , pp. 189 - 190
Copyright
2001 Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom

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