![]() Predictions from the model revealed that the location of preferred habitat differs within and between years in correspondence with variation in environmental conditions. Additionally, distance to shore, distance to the 22☌ SST isotherm, and an interaction between time of year and latitude (to account for the latitudinal migration of whales) were also selected in the analysis presented here. Consistent with previous studies, sea surface temperature (SST), water depth, and survey year were significant predictors of right whale relative abundance. ![]() We summarized whale sightings, survey effort corrected for probability of whale detection, and environmental data at a semimonthly resolution. We built upon previous habitat models for right whales in the SEUS and include data from new aerial surveys that extend the spatial coverage of the analysis, particularly in the northern portion of this wintering ground. We developed a temporally dynamic habitat model to predict wintering right whale distribution in the SEUS using a generalized additive model framework and aerial survey data from 2003/2004 through 2012/2013. Management actions implemented in this area for the recovery of the right whale population rely on accurate habitat characterization and the ability to predict whale distribution over time. The coastal waters off the southeastern United States (SEUS) are a primary wintering ground for the endangered North Atlantic right whale ( Eubalaena glacialis), used by calving females along with other adult and juvenile whales.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |