Violi and Santos (2019) analyzed migration behavior and created the first photo-ID catalogue of fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) in the Azores, identifying 214 individuals over seven years of data collected from whale-watching tours.

Objective

On the basis of data for the period of whale watching 2012–2017, this study examines the occurrence and the migration behavior of fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) in the Azores. The plan was to compile a photo ID catalogue and to assess the species’ behaviour and the effects of whale watching on their natural activities.

Impact

A total of 214 separate fin whales were recorded within the study and the whales were found to have favoured the area to the south of Pico Island.
The two most frequent behavioral states were travelling and foraging, and the whales showed no reaction to the boats in 84 percent of the cases.
In this regard, the study finds that the Azores is a migratory route for fin whales especially in the spring season.
This study raises more questions on the possible routs and feeding habitats of the fin whales in the region.

Supported UN Global Goals

This research on the migration patterns of fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) in the Azores pairs with Sustainable Development Goal 14 aim to study Life Below Water. The study adds important data on the migration behavior of whale, as well as on the response of whale to whale watching activities, and contributes to the conservation of marine biodiversity and sustainable tourism.