A review of the distribution, migrations, food, reproduction, exploitation and present abundance of humpback whales (Megatera novaeangliae) in the northeast Atlantic
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http://hdl.handle.net/11250/104809Utgivelsesdato
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Most available knowledge about northeast Atlantic humpback whales
(Megaptera novaeangliae) is based on information and experience gained
during the pioneer period of modern whaling in Norwegian waters in
1868-1904 when almost 1,500 animals were taken. A literature review
reveals that these humpbacks stayed in their northern feeding areas
during most of the year (May-January), migrating out only during a
short period in spring for breeding purposes. Recent incidental
sightings data confirm these migration patterns. Seemingly, euphauciid
crustaceans were their main prey items when they arrived in Norwegian
waters (mainly in the Bear Island area) in late spring, whereas
capelin (Mallotus villosus) became more and more important throughout
the season when the humpbacks proceeded eastwards into the Barents
Sea. The collapse in the Barents Sea capelin stock may have
contributed to a reduction in these eastwards autumn migrations after
1985. The humpback's breeding migration in early spring were observed
to be directed westwards from the Barents Sea and towards the
Norwegian Sea, but the migration routes and the localisation of the
breeding areas were and are still unknown. Between 1904 and 1955, when
the humpback was given total protection in the North Atlantic, less
than 50 humpbacks were caught in Norwegian waters. The number of
humpbacks in the northeast Atlantic has probably never been large.
Results from more extensive sightings surveys in 1988 and 1989 seem to
indicate a present abundance of about 1,000 humpback whales in
Norwegian and adjacent waters.