Hi Marmamers,
This year, for the first time in 15 years of dedicated research, Fin Whales
have failed to appear in the Bay of Biscay (waters between France and Spain in
the eastern North Atlantic) for the late summer feeding season.
A number of research organisations have been conducting long-term ferry-based
monitoring programmes in the Bay of Biscay for 15 years now, including
Marinelife http://www.biscay-dolphin.org.uk/ and ORCA
http://www.orcaweb.org.uk/ .
The information from these databases shows that although small numbers are seen
throughout the year, a clear and predictable pattern of Fin Whale movement into
the eastern part of the Bay of Biscay occurs annually from mid July onwards,
with numbers building up to a peak in mid August, before declining steadily
through until October.
A typical ferry crossing at this time of year would involve between 50 and 100
Fin Whale sightings. This year, as of 2nd August, there are none!
The reasons for this are unclear to us, and compounded by the fact that we know
nothing about the distribution of these animals when they are not in the Bay of
Biscay.
We would be very interested, therefore, to hear from anybody in the eastern or
western North Atlantic experiencing either unusually high numbers of Fin
Whales, or Fin Whales that are remaining in their area longer than would
normally be the case.
Please email your comments to both of the following:
Dylan Walker at: dy...@orcaweb.org.uk
Clive Martin at: clive.mar...@biscay-dolphin.org.uk
We look forward to hearing from fellow Fin Whale watchers in the hope of
solving this mystery!!
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