Photo-identification data were used by Mullin et al. (2022) to document long range movements of sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) in the North Atlantic, including movements between the Azores and the Gulf of Mexico, Bahamas region.

Objectives

Using photo identification data from the Azores, Bahamas and Gulf of Mexico to document long range movements of sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) in the north Atlantic.
It is used to compare photo identification catalogues from different regions to assess sperm whale migration patterns, and social structure.
The photo ID techniques were used to determine the feasibility of using them to track migratory movements and identify social connections between populations of sperm whales over immense oceanic distances.

Impact

Using genetic analyses, the study showed that sperm whales can travel 1,500 to 6,200 By (km) across North Atlantic, establishing that three individuals moved between the Gulf of Mexico, Bahamas, and Azores on 5.9 to 14.9 year time scales.
Photo identification is proven useful for tracking long distance movements and demonstrates that male sperm whales are migratory.
These findings reinforce the value of collaborative research among regions to more fully understand the social structure and conservation needs for sperm whales in the North Atlantic.

Supported UN Global Goals

Sperm whales’ movement patterns across the North Atlantic contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water), as Mullin et al. (2022) investigate. Photo-identify techniques they use to track individual whales supports the conservation of migratory species, and the sustainable management of the marine ecosystem. This study emphasizes the reality of international collaboration and the necessity to integrate data from whale watching operations to perceive cetacean migration and social structure.