Andrea Cosentino’s 2010 study examined the seasonal distribution of Northern Bottlenose Whales (Hyperoodon ampullatus) off Pico Island, highlighting their presence in deep waters during summer months.

Objectives

The study aimed to understand the spatial and temporal patterns of the spatial distribution of the Northern Bottlenose Whale (Hyperoodon ampullatus) around Pico, Azores. This analysis was aimed at determining where this species is seasonally present and identifying preferred areas based on environmental features including water depth and seafloor slope.

Impact

Northern Bottlenose Whales are most commonly recorded in deep waters (750 – 1780 m) and steeply sloped prey habitat in July and August.
The research indicates that the Azores are core to the migration corridor and feeding area of this species and we stress the importance for future studies on their habitat preferences to aid in more appropriate conservation strategies in this region.

Supported UN Global Goals

Around Pico Island in the Azores, Andrea Cosentino in 2010 achieved an objective of Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water) by increasing our knowledge of the temporal structure of abundance and spatial pattern of habitat usage by Northern Bottlenose Whales (Hyperoodon ampullates). This work gathers data from land-and sea-based observation to explain their affinity for deep water and seasonal occurrence in summer. This information is useful for marine species conservation, helps to understand and protect deep-sea living resources, and enables the development of cooperative management for North Atlantic cetaceans.