FIN WHALE PROJECT - EDMAKTUB

www.edmaktub.org

FIN WHALE PROJECT

Study of baleen whales in Catalan waters An initiative of the EDMAKTUB Association

PRESENTATION DOSSIER RESULTS 2015

INDEX

Introduction (pg. 3) The Fin whale Project (pg. 4) Study area (pg. 5) Objectives (pg. 7) Fields of action (pg. 9) Infrastructure (pg. 11) Methodology (pg. 12) Results from 2015 Improvement of knowledge (pg. 16) Biodiversity (pg. 23) Improvement of protocols (pg. 25) Education and Awareness (pg. 26) Broadcasting (pg. 29) Future work (pg. 33) About the EDMAKTUB Association (pg. 36) Annexes I: fin whales (pg. 37) II: interview with fishermen (pg. 39) III: scientific papers (pg. 40)

INTRODUCTION From February till June an extraordinary phenomenon occurs along the Catalan coast, which has been reported by fishermen for decades, but has not been the subject of extensive scientific research: the presence of fin whales. Balaenoptera physalus is the scientific name for the fin whale, a baleen whale species that can reach up to 24 meters in length, and is therefore the largest species to inhabit the Mediterranean. It is a spectacular animal that is intelligent and social, about which very little is known. Furthermore, it is a protected and endangered species. Since 2013, the Fin whale Project has pursued the double objective of expanding knowledge about the presence of this whale on our coasts and to encourage its preservation. This project is an initiative of the EDMAKTUB Association, a non-profit organisation dedicated to scientific study and dissemination of the aquatic environment, particularly regarding research on cetaceans.

Photograph of two fin whales as they come to the surface to breathe. Their exhalation

forms a typical ‘blow’. Note the proximity of the coast line

This dossier presents the details of the Fin whale Project – including objectives, study area, methodology, infrastructure and fields of action – as well as the results obtained to date. The Fin whale Project is a pioneering research project that is feasible with the support of the Biodiversity Foundation, the Ministry of food, agriculture and environment, the Barcelona Zoo foundation and the Nautical Club of Vilanova. Furthermore, there is a collaboration with local governments such as the Dirección General de Pesca de la Generalitat de Catalunya, the Municipality of Vilanova i la Geltrú, and with the Catalan fishing and nautical sectors.

THE FIN WHALE PROJECT

The Fin whale Project conducts scientific studies on fin whales, organized by the EDMAKTUB Association in order to expand the knowledge on Balaenoptera physalus species, as well as on the conditions and reasons that favour their springtime presence along the Garraf coast and the Catalan coast in general. The project is the first of its kind to take place in these waters, as it pursues the preservation of marine fauna and the establishment of new, effective, and environment friendly research protocols. The very first boat surveys were carried out in 2011 and 2013, which is when the first individual animals were sighted and catalogued. As the project developed, more extensive maritime campaigns were carried out since 2014, and from then on, the study arose as a long-term project

Fin whale surfacing on the Garraf coast

About the fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) The fin whale, a.k.a. finback whale, razorback whale or common rorqual, is the second largest mammal living on our planet, second only to the blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus). Its diet consists mainly of krill, which are very small crustaceans that inhabit pelagic zones, namely in shallow open sea with temperate to cold water temperatures. Fin whales undergo seasonal migrations to feed and reproduce. Its appearance is slender, with a pointed snout and a small dorsal fin. It also has a characteristic facial asymmetry in that the coloration on the lower part of the right side of the head is white, and black on the left. As already mentioned, very little is known about this species in danger of extinction. (More information in the Annex)

Study Area

Map showing the study area of the Fin whale Project

The Fin whale Project covers the coastal area between Barcelona and Tarragona, with an area of more intensive study of about 840 km2 between the towns of Sitges (Vallarca) and Cunit, and extends up to 8-9 miles off shore. The maritime campaigns start from the port of Vilanova i la Geltrú. As there is an expanding network of contacts with fishermen and sailors in the area, this allows for a more extensive record of sightings that span from Arenys de Mar to Tarragona. The Costa del Garraf is part of the study area and spans from Castelldefels to Cunit. This area is recognised as being of ecological importance, as it part of an area that is declared as Site of Community Importance (SCI) and Special Protection Area (SPA) for the conservation of wild birds, part of the Natura 2000 network and Plan for Areas of Natural Interest (PEIN).

Characteristics of the study area There is a coming together of circumstances specific for this area that could favour the concentration of plankton in relatively shallow waters close to the shore. On the one hand there is the presence of submarine canyons –of which the most relevant is called the Foix, in front of the coast of Vilanova i la Geltrú- as well as a well-defined and relatively short coastal shelf. Submarine canyons have an intrinsic relation with the upwelling of cold water and the resulting change in water masses and nutrient supply. As for the nutrient concentration, there is river water from the Llobregat River and numerous others streams that form in case of heavy rainfall, that deliver organic material to the sea. Furthermore, the water currents along this coastline should be considered as well, as they could favour the formation of a backwater area within‟ the study area. This could all contribute to the springtime presence of krill, whose existence has not only been confirmed by the scientific team, but also by local fishermen. And moreover, there are records of fin whales feeding in the shallow waters of the study area, as well as there is a rich biodiversity in marine fauna.

Samples of northern krill, Meganyctiphanes norvegica,

a crustacean species in the order Euphausiacea .

Objectives of the Fin whale Project

1. To improve the knowledge on fin whales and oceanographic conditions that favour their seasonal presence on the Catalan coast.

Aerial view of a fin whale on the Garraf coast.

Specifically, the Project aims to:

Develop maps of presence and distribution of fin whales along the Catalan coast, studying the number of individuals, their behaviour and possible migration routes.

Photo-identify the observed animals, and to create a catalogue of the individuals. This catalogue can then be compared with other study areas to establish the possible migration routes of fin whales in the Mediterranean

Determine the oceanographic characteristics of the area -such as salinity, temperature, chlorophyll and nutrients- and their relation, not only with the presence of fin whales, but also with the great biodiversity of the Garraf coast.

Make acoustic recordings of whale vocalizations during their stay in the area.

2. To educate society and promote the conservation of the marine environment. By studying the species and its habitat, it is possible to determine critical parameters and to make recommendations for conservation. Through the information is relevant both at an individual as well as a collective, people are more willing to cooperate in conservation. In regard to awareness and preservation, these are the objectives of the project:

To demonstrate the specific ecologic importance of the study area, not only because of the presence of whales but also for its remarkable wealth of marine species.

To establish and maintain a network of contacts with fishermen and sailors in the area and to gather information about their sightings.

Marine Stewardship: to involve different entities and individuals that make use of the area, and to make them protagonists of conservation efforts with the common goal of preserving the area and its rich biodiversity. This not only involves fishermen and sailors, but also institutions and citizens of the nearby towns, as they are essential to establish a network of marine stewardship along the Garraf coast.

3. To improve the ethical standards of field research of cetaceans.

To develop new research protocols, and to define new and more efficient techniques and methodologies that are less invasive and less annoying for the animals.

To contribute to the awareness of researchers on the importance of welfare of wildlife.

A fin whale very close to a recreational vessel on the Garraf coast

Fields of action In order to achieve the objectives described in the previous paragraph, the Fin whale Project is active on several levels: 1. Field research: conducted through maritime campaigns, which are the main focus of the study, in which individual animals are sighted, reported and identified, as well as studying the oceanographic conditions that favour their presence. (The research methods are described in detail in the Methodology section.) 2. Education: not only through publishing the work that has been conducted, but also by elaborating the knowledge of the sea and of cetaceans and to explain how to act in case of sighting a whale. Special effort is being devoted to training the educational community and the sectors that are related to our research, which includes local fishermen and sailors. Education is carried out through informative lectures, courses and special programs for schools, as well as through distributing information via printed material and digital platforms, and also through organizing thematic activities that deal with the sea and cetaceans. With regard to the fishermen, we strive to establish, expand and maintain a contact network within the main „guilds‟ of the area, to inform them about our activities and to establish a collaboration in sharing communication for when they spot a whale.

Training activity with students

In June 2015 the very first episode of ‘Animalades’ was recorded on-board our research

vessel, the Maktub. Animalades is a TVE production about Catalan wildlife and was issued in December of 2015.

3. Exposure: focusing on communicating our activities and disseminating the results of the research, both to the scientific community and the general public, through several communication channels (website, social networks, newsletters, brochures and flyers, etc.) and through participation in local fairs, scientific conferences, and others events and activities that are related to the marine environment and cetacean in particular. Of special importance are the relationships we have with the media, with which we actively collaborate, either by sending press releases or facilitating interviews, recordings and self-produced audio-visual material.

Infrastructure In order to develop the maritime campaigns of the Fin whale project, as well as to carry out the necessary activities to achieve the objectives mentioned before, the project has the following infrastructure: Research vessel. The Maktub is the main platform for work and research. It is 14.3 meter long catamaran with sails that provides accommodation for a crew of up to 12 people. Its homeport is the Nautical Club of Vilanova (Club Náutico Vilanova). The vessel is equipped with modern instrumentation, computers, navigation systems, diving equipment, etc.

Picture of the Maktub, the research vessel of the Edmaktub association.

Remote controlled multicopter (drone). This innovative technology consists of a radio-controlled aircraft model, equipped with a high-resolution camera that can take pictures and record video. Drone-based research is a particularly useful tool that can provide additional information whenever there is a sighting, in that it allows a real-time visualization and recording of images by means of a video broadcasting system and linked-up goggles. This information would be impossible to obtain through direct observation from the boat only. High-resolution photo and video cameras, both in air and underwater. These are used for photo-identification and to study the behaviour of the observed animals. Hydrophone array and other acoustic systems for recording underwater sounds. Sensors and technical equipment for collecting data on temperature, salinity, nutrient concentration in the water, and for taking biological samples. Net for collecting small-sized invertebrates with a mesh size of a few microns.

Methodology

The research method of the Fin whale Project is based on performing random transects surveys aboard the Maktub to watch and observe animals and to collect samples. These maritime campaigns operate daily from mid-February to mid-June, whenever the weather permits to spot animal presence in the study area. During each trip, information is collected, not only on the presence and behaviour of cetaceans, but also on the oceanographic parameters within the study area. Subsequent after each trip, we analyse and process the information collected by the scientific team and collaborating entities. Sighting and observation. All data on weather, sea and environmental conditions, and the position and track of the vessel are recorded. In case of a sighting, high-resolution photographs are taken and videos are recorded. Moreover, the coordinates, type of species, number of animals, behaviour, and the distance and angle to the boat are registered. Taking pictures of the whales‟ dorsal fin and the chevron (i.e. the colorations on the sides of the head) allows for a subsequent photo-ID, that is the identification of each individual through the analysis of the dorsal fin profile, the chevron coloration and the different marks or characteristics scars that can be seen over the entire body of the animal. Whenever possible, pictures are taken from both sides of the animal, at angle of 90º.

These images show the different categories for fin classification by means of photo-ID. According to Agler et al. (1990), there are seven main categories of dorsal fin profile.

Instalment of the buoy with hydrophone

Acoustic recordings. During the 2015 campaign, and in close collaboration with the LAB (Laboratory of Applied Bio-Acoustics) of the UPC, a buoy with hydrophone was installed in order to record sounds of the environment, with specific attention to the vocalizations of fin whales in the study area. Data gets transmitted in real time to the ground station of the LAB. A specific classification module is being developed to be integrated in the LIDO architecture that can automatically detect and classify the different signals. You can listen in real time: www.listentothedeep.com

Fin whale faeces

Collection of biological samples. During whale sightings we collect biological samples of: Faeces. Defecating whales have been observed on several occasions. In fact, this is quite easy to detect as the water gets tinged with a reddish colour. The moment this happens, we quickly collect samples with a fine mesh, which are then stored under sterile conditions to be analysed in the laboratory afterwards. (The analysis of faeces complements the study on genetics.)

Net for collecting plankton samples

Zooplankton. Zooplankton samples are collected at different locations along the surveys and at different depths. We make use of a funnel-shaped net with a very fine mesh of only a few microns aperture. The objective is to determine the different organisms that are part of the zooplankton mass in order to assess the possible diet of the whales. The qualitative analysis of zooplankton samples is performed with a stereomicroscope, both in situ –on-board- as well as later on in the laboratory (for which samples are preserved in alcohol).

View from the drone, with the ‘blow

capture deposit’ suspended

Blow. The scientific team has developed a new method for obtaining samples of the whales‟ blow. It consists of a silicone cone that is suspended from the drone, and that channels the exhalation into a sterile absorbent material (tampon). The sample contains traces of cells from animal‟s respiratory tract lining. Subsequent laboratory analysis of this material allows for a genetic classification of individuals.

Water sample, ready for analysis

Satellite image showing the concentration of chlorophyll

Registering Oceanographic Parameters. The oceanographic and environmental conditions along the coast may act in favour of the presence of whales as well as they could help to understand the animal‟s behaviour and feeding habits. Therefore, on each boat trip, different samples are taken: Chlorophyll (phytoplankton) and nutrients. Water samples are taken daily at different locations along the transect and/or at the location of the acoustic buoy. Surface water gets collected, and part of it is stored in the on-board refrigerator until arrival at the port where the sample is prepared and stored to be processed in the laboratory later on. This part of the study is carried out with the collaboration of the Institute of Marine Sciences (ICM - CSIC). The remaining water will be used for further analysis. With regard to chlorophyll, satellite imagery can help to determine how chlorophyll concentrations change during the study time.

CTD

Temperature and salinity (conductivity) as oceanographic descriptors. Three types of sampling are performed: - Superficial sampling is carried out with the remainder of the water sample taken for determination of chlorophyll and nutrients. - Vertical sampling of the water column with a CTD (Conductivity, Temperature and Depth/Density/Pressure). - Transect sampling at a constant depth of about 10m with a temperature sensor that records every 10 seconds.

Fishing vessel

Data collection of opportunistic sightings. Interviews with fishermen who work daily in the area, are essential to gather information, as they have knowledge and experience that has accumulated over the years. For this, we have designed a survey (see Annex) that aims to contextualize how, when and where to locate the whales. This information is compared with the data obtained during the months of campaign.

Opportunistic sightings, mainly from fishermen and sailors, offer additional data that supplements the information obtained during the maritime campaigns. In addition to the coordinates of the sighting, we also ask for photo and video images of the spotted cetaceans, which can be sent by Whatsapp or email (see left). The image on the left corresponds to the sticker we have designed to remind people of our initiative. These stickers are mainly distributed among fishermen and sailors.

RESULTS: IMPROVEMENT OF KNOWLEDGE ON FIN WHALES The first recordings of whale sightings were obtained during campaigns in 2011 and 2013. Since 2014, we have developed comprehensive maritime surveys with daily departures from mid-February to mid-June (whenever the weather conditions were favorable).

This map reflects the vessel surveys that were carried out in 2015. The homeport is in Vilanova I la Geltrú. In total, the campaign covered 61 days and 2.500 km of transect

along the strip between Sitges (Vallcarca) and Cunit.

The obtained data shows that fin whales are abundantly present in the study area between February and June. The animals were sighted close to land, about 4-5 nm offshore. All sightings happened in relatively shallow waters, ranging from 50 to 200 m depth. In other areas of the Mediterranean, fin whales are usually found in waters with depth of at least 450m (although there have been reports in shallower water of about 90m as well). Preliminary results indicate that the fin whale presence in our study area is related to the presence of krill (order Euphausiacea), and in particular a species called Northern krill (Megayctiphanes norvegica) The following table shows the results on sighting and identification data, with a summary of the efforts over the years since 2011.

2011 2013 2014 2015 TOTAL

Nº of campaign days ~14 ~11 51 61 ≈137

Nº of hours ---- ---- 295 289 584

Kilometres travelled ---- ---- 2.289 2.532 4.821

Surface covered (Km2) ---- ---- 840 840 ------

Nº of sightings ---- ---- 48 22 ≈70

Nº of animals sighted 6 13 62 30 111

Nº of identified individuals 6 13 48 20 87

Nº of listed individuals* 5 9 32 12 58

Nº of sightings reported by professional fishermen

---- ---- 16 21 37

Nº of sightings reported by recreational fishermen and sailors

---- ---- 4 2 6

* An individual animal gets included in the CATALOG whenever its identification is unambiguous and can therefore be of use for other studies.

Sightings Since the beginning of the Project in 2011 there have been at least 70 sightings and 111 spotted fin whales. The map below reflects the geographic distribution of sightings in 2014 and 2015.

Fin whale sightings by EDMAKTUB in 2014 and 2015

Opportunistic platforms – Professional fishermen We have established a contact network with fishermen that work in the study area. This had been possible thanks to the collaboration with the General Directorate for

Fisheries and Maritime Affairs of the Department of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Food of the Catalonian Government (Dirección General de Pesca y Asuntos Marítimos del Departamento de Agricultura Ganadería, Pesca y Alimentación de la Generalitat de Cataluña).

This network was elaborated further in 2015, leading to a significant increase in the provision of information, not only during the months of the maritime campaign, but also outside the main study period. Thus, despite the significant decrease in whale presence in 2015, the amount of sightings did increase in comparison to the previous year.

This network allows the research to cover a larger study area, which would not be feasible with a single vessel.

Distribution map of the sightings that were obtained through the contact network

In 2014, the number of sightings provided by the contact network represented 28% of the total number of sightings, while this increased to almost 50% in 2015. In total, over the last two years, 43 sightings have been reported by professional fishermen, sailors and recreational fishermen. Qualitative interviews with the captains of the vessels that are part of the network, have shown that 75% said that the animals are mainly present in spring and summer, with peaks in April and May. This information is independent from the different fishermen guilds and from the type of vessel. Over 80% of respondents relates the presence of whales to krill that are commonly seen in fishing gear or marked on the probe as a large patch of dimensions that can only be attributed to large banks of this crustacean.

As for the water depth and distance from coast in which the whales are observed, the results differ between the guilds. Fishermen from Vilanova i la Geltrú located sightings between 5 and 6 nautical miles (nm) offshore, never exceeding more than 8 miles, and corresponding to a depth between 100 and 200 meters. These fishermen associate the most likely location to spot the whales to be at the head of the Foix canyon. On the other hand, fishermen from Barcelona attributed the sightings to a distance between 3 and 15 nm offshore, while no whales were sighted in depths over 400 m. The professional fishermen also provide us with information on the oceanographic conditions and the presence of other species that inhabit the study area in different trophic levels. Todos los pescadores entrevistados acumulan más de 20 años de experiencia trabajando en el mar, All interviewed fishermen accumulate more than 20 years of experience working at sea. They have been watching the area and spotting whales for their entire professional life, and even been hearing stories from their ancestors about the local presence of fin whales. A decrease in the number of whale sightings in 2015 The series of data collected during the last two seasons show important changes in abundance of animals and timing of whale presence. As such, in 2015 the number of animal sightings was less than half of the number in 2014 (62 animals in 2014 - 30 in 2015), a situation that was much more notable from April onwards. Two oceanographic parameters related to the presence of phytoplankton and consequently zooplankton are chlorophyll concentration (Chla) and surface temperature (SST). Since the fin whales adapt their migration to the availability of food, a rigorous study and analysis of these data is essential. In order to complement the study on chlorophyll concentrations we have been looking at satellite data (GES DISC) with a time resolution of 8 days. Preliminary results indicate that chlorophyll concentration presented an earlier peak in 2015 compared to the previous year. The same conclusion applies to water temperature, for which samples were taken on a daily basis, and which indicated that seasonal warming occurred earlier in 2015 compared to the 2014 data. Moreover, spring of 2015 was considered by meteorologists to be the driest in recent years, which could explain a disruption in the ecology and the food chain, and the consequential absence of whales in the month of May, which usually depicts a peak in whale presence.

Behaviour

The drone imagery has shown that fin whales enter the study area to feed in shallow waters. The video is available on the EDMAKTUB Youtube channel, and a screenshot of the video can be seen below.

This screenshot from the drone depicts a fin whale after engorging krill in shallow waters

We have also observed whales defecating shortly after feeding, as this stains the water red. Moreover, the whale‟s moving patterns can indicate foraging behaviour as they tend to circle or move in "eights" in a bound area. When this occurs, the whales often approach the boat, allowing us to spend several hours with the same animal or group without having to follow them. It has also been observed that some fin whales tend to approach vessels without any apparent fear, whether these vessels are trawlers or merchant ships transiting the area. We have also observed other behavioural patterns that can expand our knowledge and understanding of this species.

Biological samples The qualitative analysis of zooplankton that was collected during the campaigns, showed the presence of Northern krill (Northern krill, Meganyctiphanes norvegica), which is important in the diet of fin whales, and of several species of arthropods, some of which are depicted in the following table.

Familia Especie

Euphausiidae Meganyctiphanes norvegica

Calanidae Calanus helgolandicus

Centropagidae Centropages typicus

Euphausiidae Nyctiphanes couchii

Paracalanidae Paracalanus parvus

Temoridae Temora stylifera

Palaemonidae Palaemon macrodactylus

Caligidae Sciaenophilus pharaonis

Dyphyidae Muggiaea atlántica

Below are some example images of the different species of zooplankton found

during the 2015 campaigns.

Centropages typicus Nyctiphanes couchii Palaemon macrodactylus

Next, once the methodology of sampling the whale‟s blow and faeces is perfected, these samples will be analysed in the laboratory as well.

Photo-identification

Since the first recorded sightings in 2011, and after thorough analysis of the obtained images, the very first photo-identification catalogue of fin whales of the north-east Mediterranean was created. Now, this catalogue contains 58 different individuals. Five of these were added in 2011, nine in 2013, thirty-two in 2014, and twelve in 2015. The CATALOGUED animals are unequivocally identified specimens of fin whales in that they can be identified in successive campaigns and they can be compared with individuals belonging to catalogues of other research teams in their respective study areas. The following table summarizes the results of the photo-identification catalogue from 2011 to 2015, describing the number of maritime surveys performed and the total number of animals spotted, identified and catalogued in each campaign. The number of animals RE-SIGHTED (RE-AVISTADOS) refers to individuals that were spotted for several days in the same year. RECAPTURED (RECAPTURADOS) animals are those that have been spotted multiple times, but in different years.

There is one remarkable repeated presence of an individual (called Bp_005), that was first seen in 2011, again observed (recaptured) in 2014 for 3 different days, and recaptured again in 2015 during 5 different days.

Pictures of individual Bp_005 in three different years (2011, 2014, 2015)

To be able to re-sight and re-capture individuals indicates that some animals tend to spend more than one day in the area (probably in search of food), and that they migrate annually to the same location.

RESULTS: BIODIVERSITY The Fin whale Project has revealed the great biodiversity of the study area where, besides fin whales, you can also find other cetacean species such as bottlenose dolphins (Turiops truncatus), striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba) and Risso‟s dolphins (Grampus griseus). Moreover, there are numerous fish species among which the sunfish (Mola mola) and the devil fish or giant devil ray (Mobula mobular)

Striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba)

Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus)

Risso’s dolphin (Grampus griseus)

Sun fish (Mola mola)

During the campaigns we also record the presence of other cetaceans, as can be seen in the table below.

TOTAL SIGHTINGS – OTHER CETACEANS

(Note that there is no reference to the number of animals, only to the number of sightings)

Total sightings

Stenella coeruleolba

Tursiops truncatus

Grampus griseus

2014

17

8

2

2015

15

13

5

Scopoli’s shearwater

Balearic shearwater

Pomarine skua

Audouin’s gull

There is also a wealth of seabirds in the area. In 2015, we have observed 21 different species of sea birds:

Procellariidae (Shearwaters)

Calonectris diomedea (Scopoli‟s shearwater)

Puffinus yelkouan (Mediterranean shearwater)

Puffinus mauretanicus (Balearic shearwater)

Hydrobatidae (Petrels)

Hydrobates pelagicus (European storm petrel)

Sulidae (Gannets)

Morus bassanus (Northern gannet)

Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants)

Phalacrocorax carbo (Great cormorant)

Phalacrocorax aristotelis (European shag)

Stercorariidae (Skuas)

Stercorarius skua (Great skua)

Stercorarius pomarinus (Pomarine skua)

Stercorarius parasiticus (Parasitic jaeger)

Laridae (Seagulls)

Chroicocephalus ridibundus (Black-headed gull)

Larus melanocephalus (Mediterranean gull)

Larus michahellis (Yellow-legged gull)

Larus audouinii (Audouin‟s gull)

Larus fuscus (Lesser black-blacked gull)

Hydrocoloeus minutus (Little gull)

Rissa tridactyla (Black-legged kittiwake)

Sternidae (Terns)

Sterna sandvicensis (Sandwich tern)

Chlidonias niger (Black tern)

Alcidae (Auks)

Fratercula arctica (Atlantic puffin)

Alca torda (Razorbill)

The presence of the Balearic shearwater, along with Scopoli‟s shearwater, Audouin‟s gull, and the Mediterranean Gull have led to denominating the area as a Special Protection Area (SPA) and also as Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA).

RESULTS: IMPROVEMENT OF RESEARCH PROTOCOLS Thanks to air footage obtained with a drone, the team has been able to gather information that is not accessible from the boat. For example, the number of individuals within cetacean groups can be observed very clearly from above, as well as the social structure and behavioural patterns. In April 2015, an unprecedented recording of fin whales feeding close to the surface was captured. In addition the blow sampling protocol by means of a drone revealed the effectiveness of this development in obtaining biological samples with no need of direct contact with the animals and even without disturbing their behaviour.

Detail of the blowhole

Detail of the dorsal fin

Fin whale

Fin whale

Thanks to this high-quality imagery, we are developing a new methodology for photo-identification by analysing aerial footage of the whales. Screenshots of this footage is used to detect morphological characteristics of the head, the blowhole and/or the entire body in order to define a specific individual and to be able to differentiate it from others. This methodology will support and complement the current photo-identification methods that mainly look at the whale‟s dorsal fin, chevron and visible body scars. Thus, this would help to complete the identification catalogue and make it more rigorous.

RESULTS: EDUCATION AND AWARENESS

Contact network with fishermen and sailors The first contacts with fishermen were established in 2014. At first, everything went through the management department of the competent fisheries, while later, contact was established directly with the guilds involved. After introducing the Fin whale Project, we established a collaboration. The fishermen that fish by means of trawling are of special importance to the project because of the distance from shore they are active at, and also because of the dynamics of their working hours. Contact is maintained regularly by mobile phone and radio (offshore). Currently there are ships belonging to three different guilds (Vilanova, Barcelona and Tarragona) that show a profound collaboration with the project, although ships of other guilds have also expressed their support. Visits to the different guilds of Catalonia are made periodically in order to (re-)establish and strengthen the contact with the fishermen, by talking to them in person. In this manner, the fishermen become more aware of the value of the information they provide in regard to possible changes in behaviour and habitat of the fin whales over the years. We also informed sailors and yachtsmen about the Fin whale Project and about the importance of reporting their sightings. Identification cards about Cetaceans of the Mediterranean were handed to them together with sighting chips for recording observations.

Fishermen and fin whales have been living together along the Catalan coast for many years

Lectures and conferences Since the beginning of the Fin whale Project, the scientific team of EDMAKTUB has given several lectures and talks. Here is a list of the most relevant ones: 2015

15 octubre - Salón Náutico (Barcelona) - “Proyecto Rorcual: Estudio de las ballenas en aguas catalanas”.

28 abril - Campus Universitario de la Mediterránea, Vilanova i la Geltrú - Proyecto Rorcual: El estudio de las ballenas en las costas del Garraf.

18-19 abril - Centro de Recuperación de Animales Marinos (El Prat de Llobregrat, Barcelona) – Curso sobre “Técnicas de Estudios de Cetáceos”

13 marzo - Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona - “Proyecto Rorcual”. Ciclo especies del Mediterráneo organizado por KETÉ.

2014

Simposium Internacional de Keté "los animales de los océanos" (Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona) - “Proyecto Rorcual, cetáceos del Mediterráneo y problemáticas de las prospecciones sísmicas”.

12 de mayo Vilanova i la Geltrú - Colaboración con la FNOB / Barcelona World Race 2014 proyecto educativo de la BWR "Siguiendo la Barcelona World Race” en colaboración con el Club Náutico de Vilanova.

5 abril - 1er Congreso de Animales Marinos de la Asociación Balaena (Madrid) - “Cetáceos en el Mar Balear, proyecto Rorcual y amenazas actuales de las prospecciones”.

18 marzo - Vilanova y la Geltrú - “Proyecto Rorcual” 14a Asamblea General de la Red de ciudades y pueblos hacia la sostenibilidad

Lecture of Eduard Degollada, president of EDMKATUB,

in the Campus Universitario de la Mediterránea, April 2015.

Research Assistant Program

During the maritime campaigns that took place from mid-February to mid-June 2014 and 2015, the scientific team was joined by research assistants that stayed for a minimum period of one week. These people had the opportunity to join us to enjoy the boat trip and to watch whales, dolphins and other fauna along the Catalan coast, but they also gained theoretical and practical knowledge on field research and laboratory training, as they collaborated actively in all activities necessary to carry out this scientific work, while obtaining a valuable theoretical and practical experience in the field of cetacean research. The majority of the Research Assistants were students or recent graduates in fields like marine biology, marine sciences and other related environmental and animal studies.

Research Days

Those who want to experience what our research work is like, can join the scientific team for a day (whenever there is capacity on board). In the last two years, there were numerous enthusiasts of the sea and cetacean fans who participated in a research journey aboard the Maktub, enjoying to collaborate in all activities related to whale watching and observing.

The science team, taking pictures for photo-identification of cetaceans

RESULTS: BROADCASTING The EDMAKTUB Association has made a major effort to build up their own communication channels (web, social networks, electronic bulletin, printed material ...) to get maximum visibility while steadily increasing the audience. As such, we have a website where you can find updated information on our activities, while we are also actively present on the major social networks and digital platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, where we regularly publish new content and enjoy the significant interaction with other users. Besides this, we have a distribution list of more than 1500 people from about 25 different countries that are interested in our activities and we regularly send them information. We also publish fact sheets, brochures and information leaflets for distribution at fairs and events.

Press appearance The EDMKATUB Association pays special attention to relationships with the media, and ever since the Fin whale Project began, it has significantly appeared in several media: television, radio, print media and digital news portals. All newsfeeds and updates are available online: www.edmaktub.com/clipping

Interview with Eduard Degollada by WorldPress10

at the Boat Show (Salon Nautico) in Barcelona, 2015

http://www.edmaktub.com/clipping

Participation in scientific conferences The EDMAKTUB Association regularly participates in major scientific meetings, both at national and international level, with the aim of presenting results of the Fin whale Project. In this regard, since 2014, the research team has participated in two editions of the Annual Congress of the ECS (European Cetacean Society) that was held in Malta, in March 2015, and in Liege (Belgium) in April 2014. The results were also presented in the Annual Congresses of the SEC (Spanish Cetacean Society) in Vigo (October 2015), and in Palma de Mallorca (October 2014). The oral presentations and scientific posters that were presented in 2014 are included in the Annex of this document.

Scientific poster presented at the Eight Annual Congress

of the Spanish Cetacean Society in 2015

Participation in fairs and nautical events The scientific team of EDMAKTUB also regularly participates in nautical events with the aim of presenting the Fin whale Project to sailors, to ask for their cooperation in collecting sighting data and to provide them with information and training material about cetaceans on the Catalan coast. The following are the main nautical races in which we recently participated:

Ruta de la Sal/ANAM 2015 – April 2 to 5

Regata de Columbretes-Club Náutico de Vilanova 2014 – May 31 and June 1

Ruta de la Sal/ANAM 2014 – April 17 to 20

Booth of the Fin whale Project at WhaleFest 2015, Brighton

Moreover, the team also participates in fairs and other events that are directly related to the sea, cetaceans and environmental pollution. A list of the most recent events in which we participated with a booth or by opening the doors of the catamaran to the public, in order to present the Project and to deliver informational material:

Salón Náutico Barcelona 2015 (October 14-18) – The MAKTUB vessel was moored in the “muelle de la fusta” in the harbour of Barcelona

Delta Birding Festival 2015 (September 18-20) – International festival on ornithology – We participated with an information booth

BLAUVERD Fair 2015 in Vilanova i la Geltrú (June 6-7) – Information booth

WhaleFest 2015 in Brighton, UK (March 14-15) – Information booth

Expomar 2014 in Vilanova i la Geltrú (May 17-18) – Information booth

Environmental Fair of Vilanova y la Geltrú 2014 (June 7) – Information booth

Linking art and culture

The Maktub at sea with a sail painted by Pepa Poch

The EDMAKTUB Association collaborates with Pepa Poch, a prestige and internationally recognised artist. Her website: www.pepapoch.com Pepa Poch considers herself to be „supporting and caring by instinct‟ and she is the creator of the designs that decorate the sails and the hull of the MAKTUB since 2012, turning it into floating exhibition. She painted the sails during the Art Biennial of Havana in 2012. Her unique style endows the Maktub with a beautiful and strong personality.

This collaboration shows an interesting symbiosis of art and culture, which allows for a greater dissemination of our science and our message about the need for environmental conservation.

Pepa Poch painting the Maktub sail during the Art Biennial of Havana in 2012

http://www.pepapoch.com/

UPCOMING WORK

The good results we have obtained so far encourage us to continue the research, incorporating more ambitious objectives and new activities, such as: To continue and expand the research on fin whales along the Catalan coast. o To create a catalogue of individual fin whales in the Catalan Mediterranean, to

identify them genetically (by means of blow samples and faecal material) and through photo-identification. This would allow us to know details about the present Mediterranean population and its relationship with other whale populations in other seas and oceans.

o To determine the diet of fin whales in Catalan waters by sampling zooplankton

and faecal material. o To investigate and model the relationship between different oceanographic

and other parameters that are related to the presence and distribution of fin whales

o To determine the status of the environmental health along the Catalan coast

and its relation the presence or absence of fin whales. o Acoustics: to determine the presence and the number of fin whales that visit

the area, to study their vocalization patterns, to be able to detect them automatically and possibly identify individuals through analysis of the recordings of the hydrophone-buoy and relate them with sighting data. To get reference values on background noise and to detect any abnormal acoustic phenomena, in order to asses noise pollution within the area.

Education and awareness o To involve sailors in the study and conservation of cetaceans in Catalan-Balearic

waters through a digital portal that would be twofold: to share sighting information and to inform them about the different species present in these waters.

o To create a network of marine stewardship along the Garraf coast with the

common objective of preserving the area and its rich biodiversity.

o To strive towards the implementation of protective measures and conservation of the area by proclaiming it to be of special importance, not only for whales and other cetaceans, but also for many species of invertebrates, fish and seabirds.

o To raise awareness among the general public through different types of media.

o To continue to present the results of the Fin whale Project at scientific

conferences and by publishing the results of our research in scientific papers and specialized journals.

To incorpórate new technology o To establish a new methodology based on the use of remote-controlled model

planes or drones to study whales and other cetaceans, while minimizing the impact on the animals, such as avoiding physical contact when taking biological samples.

o To expand investigation methods with thermal imaging, which would allow to

detect of whales and other cetaceans during day and night time.

Aerial view of a fin whale on the Garraf coast – Spring 2015

Maktub, the research catamaran of the EDMAKTUB Association

ABOUT THE EDMAKTUB ASSOCIATION The EDMAKTUB Association is a non-profit organization based in Barcelona. It is dedicated to scientific study and dissemination of the aquatic environment, with special attention to research on cetaceans. It was founded in 2000 by Dr. Eduard Degollada. EDMAKTUB operates through various research projects, either based on own initiative or by collaborating with other research institutions. The interest is always to expand the knowledge about the sea and marine fauna, and to preserve the rich biodiversity. The Association features a comprehensive research platform whose centrepiece is a catamaran that is equipped with a remote-controlled drone, hydrophone, and diverse instruments for collecting samples, sounds and images. The research team comprises a group of scientist and specialist in diverse fields: biology, veterinary medicine, environmental sciences, audio-visual techniques, and others. The EDMAKTUB Association gave birth to the Fin whale Project in 2013, with the authorization of the Department of Sustainability of Coast and Sea of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Environment for the approach of cetaceans for scientific research in the Balearic Sea (rf116/3662).

For more information, please contact [email protected]

ANNEX I: THE FIN WHALE

The fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) is a cetacean species that belongs to the suborder of mysticetes (baleen whales). With its length up to 24m, it is the world‟s second largest mammal after the blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus), and it is the only whale species that can be found in the Mediterranean, while in turn it is also one of the species about which very little is known.

Fin whales are pelagic filter feeders that feed primarily on krill (i.e. small crustaceans of the order of euphausiid zooplankton that form part of the oceans) but also on copepods, small fish (such as mackerel, anchovies and sardines) and squid. Like a rorquals (Balaenopteridae), fin whales migrate to breed and feed as they move to low latitudes and warmer waters in winter and to cooler and more productive waters with abundance of food in summer. They can reach speeds of more than 30 km/h. Distribution of fin whales in the Mediterranean Fin whales show a variable distribution pattern in the Mediterranean throughout the year because of their migratory habits. In general, they can be found in relatively cold waters that are associated with outcrops and upwelling of deep, nutrient-rich waters. Within their range they perform latitudinal migrations, inhabiting northern waters in summer, to feed, and southern waters in winter, to mate. Seasonal migration starts approximately in February. The animals are known to move north through the Catalan-Balearic Sea, generally in parallel to the coastline. From February till June the animals can be observed close to the Catalan coast. In the summer months most individuals are concentrated in the northern waters of the western basin, especially in the Ligurian Sea, where they feed primarily on krill. After feeding, in autumn, most of the individuals migrate southwards to warmer waters but both the destination and the migratory routs are unknown.

Conservation status of the fin whale: At international level:

The IUCN Red List (International Union for Conservation of Nature) considers the fin whale as threatened or endangered since 1996. Furthermore the species is protected by various international instruments such as:

o Habitat Directive of the European Union (Annex IV) o Berne Convention (Annex II) o Barcelona Convention (Protocol IV, Annex II) o CITES Convention (C1)

At Mediterranean level:

Fin whales are considered to be of interest for ACCOBAMS (Agreement on the Conservation of Cetaceans in the Black Sea, Mediterranean Sea and Contiguous Atlantic Area) that is “a cooperative tool for the conservation of marine biodiversity in the Mediterranean and Black Seas. Its purpose is to reduce threats to cetaceans in Mediterranean and Black Sea waters and to improve our knowledge of these animals”.

At national level:

The National Catalogue of Endangered Species (CNEA -Real decrete 139/2011) considers the fin whale as a vulnerable species

The Catalogue of Threatened Species of the Canary Islands classifies the fin whale as “in danger of extinction”

The main threat to this species are collisions with boats. The protection of fin whales is very important because they are considered an "umbrella species", as they encompass a large number of species that coexist in the same environment. Therefore, their protection helps the conservation of all

these other species.

ANNEX II: INTERVIEW WITH FISHERMEN The following are the questions included in the questionnaire, which is followed by a personal conversation with each of the fishermen. 1. Fisherman data (fishing method, experience) 2. Have you seen any whales during your work? o Time of the year in which they can be seen: Winter/spring/summer/autumn o Is there a period in which they seem to be more abundantly present? (Yes/No)

When? o At which distance from shore are you active? o Is there a defined area or depth in which the whales are seen? o At which distance from shore are you used to seeing them? o Do you see more whales in any specific oceanographic conditions? Which ones? o How many individuals do you usually see at the same time? o Do you believe there is an increase/decrease in sightings over the last years? o Do the whales interact with your vessel? (Yes/No) o Does their presence get in the way of your work? (Yes/No) o Do you relate their presence with the presence of other species? (Yes/No)

Which species? (In case of mentioning krill: How do you see the krill? Visual detection or with sonar?

o Do you notice an increase/decrease in fish when during the time you can spot the whales?

3. Animal behaviour o Do they stay in a defined area for a time? (Yes/No) Or do they show any

navigational behaviour? (If so, in which direction: North/East/South/West) NOTE: The interviews have been conducted with the captains of the vessels because they are the ones in command and therefore should be aware of everything that is going on around the vessel. All interviewees had over 20 years of experience working at sea.

ANNEX III: SCIENTIFIC PRESENTATIONS Annual Congress of the ECS (European Cetacean Society) o 2015, March 23-25, Malta Scientific posters: - New data revealing remarkable fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) presence within Catalonian shallow waters - Creating a network of contacts with local fishermen as a fundamental tool to provide data consistently throughout the year: Fin whale project - First photo-identification account of fin whales feeding in the Mid Southern Catalonian Coast o 2014, April 6-9, Liege (Belgium) Scientific poster: - The study of catalonian shallow waters as a foraging area for fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus)

Annual Congress of the SEC (Spanish Cetacean Society) o 2015, October 2-3, Vigo Scientific posters: - Primer catálogo de foto-identificación de rorcual común en la costa catalana del Garraf. - Variación interanual (2014-2015) en la presencia de rorcual común (Balaenoptera physalus) a su paso por las costas del Garraf: disminución del número de individuos. - El Proyecto Rorcual establece las primeras bases para constituir una red de custodia marina en las Costas del Garraf. Ponencias orales: - Avances en el uso de drones para el estudio de cetáceos. - Uso del análisis multifractal en la determinación de un modelo funcional de la distribución del Rorcual Común (Balaenoptera physalus) en la costa catalana. o 2014, October 4-5, Palma de Mallorca Scientific posters: - El Rorcual común (Balaenoptera physalus) a su paso por las costas del Garraf: colaboración con el sector pesquero e interpretación de los parámetros oceanográficos en la zona Ponencia Oral: - Estudio del rorcual común (Balaenoptera physalus) en la costa sud-central catalana

Other work In 2014, Cristina Martín Bernal, member of the scientific team of EDMAKTUB and with a degree as Master in Oceanography and Environmental Management, presented her Thesis at the University of Barcelona (UB), titled "The fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) passing along the Garraf coasts: collaboration with fisheries and oceanographic parameters (Original: “El rorcual común (Balaenoptera physalus) a su paso por las costas del Garraf: colaboración con el sector pesquero y parámetros oceanográficos”)

The EDMAKTUB Association is a non-profit organization based in Barcelona.

It is dedicated to scientific study and spreading knowledge about the aquatic environment, in particular about research on cetaceans.

For more information, please contact:

[email protected]

The Fin whale Project, founded in 2013 by the EDMAKTUB Association,

and is dedicated to studying the springtime Fin whale presence along the Catalan coast

With support of:

In collaboration with:

FIN WHALE PROJECT - EDMAKTUB

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