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Biodiversity loss is a major global challenge of the 21st century. Ultimately, extinctions of species are determined by birth and death rates; thus, conservation management of at-risk species is dependent on robust demographic data. In this study, data gathered from 381 (227 females, 154 males) long-finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas edwardii) that died in 14 stranding events on the New Zealand coast between 2006 and 2017 were used to construct the first age- and sex-specific life tables for the subspecies. Survivorship curves were fitted to these data using (1) a traditional maximum likelihood approach, and (2) Siler’s competing-risk model. Life table construction and subsequent survival curves revealed distinct differences in the age- and sex-specific survival rates, with females outliving males. Both sexes revealed slightly elevated rates of mortality among the youngest age-classes (

Half Moon Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Saudi Arabia and is located on the Persian Gulf. Empirical data regarding Saudi marine and coastal recreation and tourism is very limited. This study used a self-reply questionnaire to investigate beach visitors' (n = 280) characteristics, motivations, and activities. Results revealed that visitors were predominantly Saudis (95%) from the Eastern Province who visited Half Moon Beach for the purpose of enjoying the beauty of nature, the sea and sand, and to relax. Visitors (39%) were mostly satisfied with the overall experience but many (23%) expressed negative comments about their beach visits. They were dissatisfied with the low level of cleanliness of the beach and facilities, a lack of services and facilities, and the limited number of seaand beach-related activities. Visitors mostly (79%) supported more development of more activities at the beach. Furthermore, visitors (47%) suggested that activities should carefully target families and children and provide options that engage the whole family. Many visitors (37%) suggested that females are an important segment and should be targeted with activities that respect their cultural and religious practices and give them more chances to enjoy the beach visits.

Over the past three decades, interacting with wildlife as a tourism activity has grown significantly and has transformed from a relatively rare experience into a mainstream tourism product. Tourism opportunities to watch, photograph, and otherwise interact with animals in their natural environment have grown to include a range of species and settings, including in the sea. Close encounters with marine wildlife are facilitated by a wide range of commercial operators, and many include and promote a strong adventure component. This article provides a consideration of the issues of risk and the emerging role of the use of social media in marine wildlife tourism experiences. While the concept of ecotourism has been widely explored in wildlife tourism research, the inherited risk involved in these activities has received little attention. This is particularly the case regarding interactions with potentially dangerous wildlife in open-water environments. This aspect warrants exploration in the context of the growth of wildlife photography/videography and sharing via social media platforms, which frequently display close encounters with animals in dangerous scenarios for both people and wildlife involved.

Capturing images has long been recognized as influential in wildlife tourism experiences. With the ubiquity of Web 2.0 in people’s everyday lives, images can now be shared instantaneously via socia...

Escaping to sea by sailing boat conjures up images of idyllic anchorages and cocktails at sunset. In this paper, the authors reflected on the reality of extended voyaging to highlight how freedom and escape are relative and constantly negotiated. The authors utilize dialogue in the analysis of the data and draw on lived experience informed by immersion in the cruising community. The authors highlight how living at sea requires adherence to an “alternative” set of obligations to land-based life. They argue that blue spaces are important as a setting for a range of experiences that allow the exploration of what is possible and how one might live well. This paper contributes to the research on human–water relationships, that is, reshaping how we conceptualize blue space(s).

The Kingdom of Tonga is a one of the few countries worldwide that allow swim-with-whales tourism activities. Most of the tour operators are based in Vava’u archipelago which represents an important...

Knowledge of population biological parameters can contribute to assessing the resilience of a population in the face of increasing anthropogenic pressures. Southern Hemisphere long-finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas edwardii) are susceptible to high rates of live stranding-related mortality. However, the biological parameters of this population largely are unknown. In this study, age, growth, allometry, and sexual dimorphism are described using teeth and external body measurements obtained from 515 male, 776 female, and 229 individuals of unknown sex, stranded on the New Zealand coastline between 1948 and 2017. Maximum ages of 31 and 38 years were estimated for males (n = 163) and females (n = 239), respectively. Females ranged in length from 160 to 500 cm (modal size class 400–449 cm) and males from 165 to 622 cm (modal size class 500–549 cm). Length-at-birth for both sexes was estimated at 170 cm using a logistic regression model. Growth models for both sexes indicated a preliminary rapid growth phase followed by a second phase of slower growth. For males, a two-phase growth model also indicated a moderate growth spurt around the average age at attainment of sexual maturity (ca.12–13 years). Asymptotic lengths were estimated at 570 and 438 cm for males and females, respectively. We found strong evidence of sexual size dimorphism, with males significantly larger than females for 13 of 14 external measurements. We also found sexual dimorphism with respect to shape, with males having proportionally longer pectoral fins, wider tail flukes, and taller dorsal fins, than females. Estimates of length-at-birth, maximum ages, and sexual shape dimorphism for G. m. edwardii differed from those previously reported for the North Atlantic subspecies (G. m. melas), which may indicate subspecies or population-level differences in morphology, longevity, and sociality.

Conservation monitoring of highly mobile species in relatively inaccessible habitats presents a considerable challenge to wildlife biologists. Effective conservation strategies require knowledge of cetacean ecology that is often challenging and expensive to obtain. Despite their caveats, stranding data represent an underused resource to study the long-term dynamics of cetacean populations. Using long-finned pilot whale (LFPW; Globicephala melas edwardii) strandings on the New Zealand coast as a case study, we present a novel approach to demonstrate how stranding data can inform conservation management of data-poor species. A total of 8571 LFPWs stranded on the New Zealand coast within a 40-year period between January 1978 and December 2017. Overall, where sex was recorded, mass stranded adults were significantly biased towards females, while a significant male bias was observed in juveniles. Strandings occurred in all months, though significant seasonal variation was evident, with 66% of stranding events reported during austral spring and summer months (October–February). Hot spot analysis (ArcGIS) identified the majority of LFPWs stranded at Golden Bay, Great Barrier Island, Stewart Island and the Chatham Islands, with emerging hot spot analysis (ArcGIS) used to identify spatiotemporal trends. While emerging hot spot analysis revealed no significant temporal trend in the annual frequency of stranding events or numbers of individuals stranded, it did reveal a significant spatiotemporal trend, with the numbers of stranded individuals declining in areas of the Far North, Coromandel, Canterbury, Otago and the Chatham Islands, and increasing in Golden Bay and Stewart Island. When combined with other contextual information, such trends help identify the most significant clusters of LFPW strandings on the New Zealand coast, provide baseline ecological data on a poorly understood subspecies, and can be used to guide conservation management of G. m. edwardii in New Zealand waters.

Male reproductive biology is described for the Southern Hemisphere long-finned pilot whale (Globicephala melas edwardii), a subspecies that regularly mass strands along the New Zealand coastline. Ten mass stranding events sampled over a 7-year period enabled assessments of key life history parameters. Sexual maturation in immature, maturing, and mature males was assessed using morphological data and histological examination of testicular tissue. Variation was observed in the age (11–15 years) and length (450–490 cm) at which individuals attained sexual maturity. Using Bayesian cumulative logit regression models, we estimated the average age and length at the attainment of sexual maturity to be 13.5 years and 472 cm, respectively. Combined testes weight, combined testes length, an index of testicular development (combined testes weight/combined testes length), and mean seminiferous tubule diameter were all good indicators of sexual maturity status. Combined testes length was the best nonhistological indicator, and all testicular measures were found to be better indicators of sexual maturation for G. m. edwardii than age or total body length. Sexual maturity was attained before physical maturity (> 40 years and 570 cm), and at a younger age and smaller body length than previously reported for Globicephala melas melas in the North Atlantic. Given the ease of collection, minimal processing, and applicability to suboptimal material collected from stranding events, future studies should assess the value of testicular size as an indicator of sexual maturity in pilot whales and other cetacean species. Estimates of the average age and length at sexual maturity for G. m. edwardii provided in this study may be used to inform population models required for conservation management of the subspecies, which is subject to high levels of stranding-related mortality.

Knowledge of population biological parameters can contribute to assessing the resilience of a population in the face of increasing anthropogenic pressures. Southern Hemisphere long-finned pilot whales (

The effectiveness of conservation in Antarctica is of critical global concern. Yet information on the impacts of increasing human activities in the region has been limited to date. Improved knowledge is critical for understanding the effectiveness of conservation, and evaluating how increasing human activity may influence the future of the continent. With no permanent human presence in Antarctica, personnel temporarily stationed at research bases provide a unique source of local and experiential knowledge on human activity and local changes in environment. In this paper, we report on the use of focus groups and participatory mapping activities with personnel at Scott Base, Ross Island, to explore perceptions of how Antarctica is used and valued. We found that all base personnel were concerned that increasing human activity would increase negative human impact at sites designated as Antarctic Specially Protected Areas. However, a quarter of participants also saw benefits to increasing human activity, including the potential to enhance advocacy for the future of the continent and increase support for environmental protection. Notably, base personnel perceived Antarctic Specially Protected Areas as being valued differently to the values identified in management documents, calling into question the clarity around ASPA designation and how well the protected area network in Antarctica is understood. Such information can be integrated with data from the natural sciences to develop a more complete picture of human impact on the continent, and can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of conservation management in Antarctica.

Humans are transforming the coastal and marine tourism environment at an ever-increasing rate. Concurrently, the multiple amenities and natural resources of coastal zones and the reality of population growth contribute to omnipresent tourism user conflicts. This results in social, wicked, and super wicked problems that are value infused, difficult to frame, and seemingly intractable. In response, scientists and other experts are encouraged to engage in use-inspired research. Further, they are advised to reconsider the basic applied science dichotomy and to make policy contributions in the role of the honest broker. Articles from the 8th International Congress on Coastal and Marine Tourism are introduced that deal with tsunami vulnerability (Thailand), wreck diving (Australia/Micronesia), national forest planning (Gulf of Alaska), cruise industry research, aquatic safety (Australia), surfing expansion (South Africa), stakeholder relations (Zanzibar, Tanzania), and kiteboarding (the Netherlands).

Remote coastal communities often lack direct exposure to tourism activities, resulting in low levels of awareness of tourism. Low levels of awareness and limited understanding of tourism may nullif...

Surfing tourism has the potential to provide significant economic income and employment opportunities. However, the development of surfing tourism in the Mentawai Islands, Indonesia, has raised important questions regarding its impacts and sustainability. Economic leakages, increased pressure on the environment and resources, and adverse effects on local communities have been shown as the major barriers to sustainable development. This article provides insights into how surfing tourism operators perceive the development and impacts of the Mentawai Islands surfing tourism industry. This research project uses an interpretive qualitative approach and follows a case study methodology utilising semi-structured interviews with resort and charter boat surfing tourism operators. The study also investigated possible future directions for creating a more sustainable surfing tourism industry in the Mentawai Islands. Findings from the research showed that charter boat operators and resort operators had differ...

Coastal inhabitants in the less developed world face growing challenges associated with dependence on marine resources in decline. The development of alternative livelihoods is one potential solution to alleviate dependency on fisheries. Tourism continues to be suggested as a potential development strategy for coastal communities, yet surf-riding tourism has received little attention as a means to achieve development goals. This paper documents two unique models currently being applied in remote artisanal fisheries communities within the Philippines. The data used to document the models have been derived from a combination of key informant interviews with surf-riding tourism developers/operators and in situ observations of the surf-riding tourism project operations. Results suggest the positive potential for surf-riding tourism as a development strategy in response to the changing needs of artisanal fishing communities in developing nations.

Taking young people to polar regions for outdoor and environmental education purposes is becoming increasingly popular. Programmes such as Students on Ice and others seek to provide opportunities for young people to learn about the Arctic and Antarctica through direct experience and via their engagement with scientists and educators. These programmes are expensive and require significant organisation and support and, thus, they represent a major investment in the young people involved. The expected return on this investment is that youth will become strong advocates for the polar regions and that their experiences will be, potentially, life shaping or life changing. Given the investment, it is surprising that there is no published empirical research about the experiences of adolescents on these programmes. This paper reports on the experiences of 12 New Zealand teenagers who were selected to participate in the 2014 Young Blake Expedition to the sub-Antarctic Auckland Islands. The research uses auto-driven...

Unmanned aerial systems (UAS), commonly referred to as drones, are finding applications in several ecological research areas since remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) technology has ceased to be a military prerogative. Fixed-wing RPA have been tested for line transect aerial surveys of geographically dispersed marine mammal species. Despite many advantages, their systematic use is far from a reality. Low altitude, long endurance systems are still highly priced. Regulatory bodies also impose limitations while struggling to cope with UAS rapid technological evolution. In contrast, small vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) UAS have become increasingly affordable but lack the flight endurance required for long-range aerial surveys. Although this issue and civil aviation regulations prevent the use of VTOL UAS for marine mammal abundance estimation on a large scale, recent studies have highlighted other potential applications. The present note represents a general overview on the use of UAS as a survey tool for marine mammal studies. The literature pertaining to UAS marine mammal research applications is considered with special concern for advantages and limitations of the survey design. The use of lightweight VTOL UAS to collect marine mammal behavioral data is also discussed.

The global spread and evolution of surfing as a recreational and sporting activity has been pervasive and rapid. The spread of surfing has become the catalyst for the development of coastal locations. Butler's model has relevance for surfing destinations where numerous examples exist of a pattern of development that has occurred over time as a location becomes known and attractive for surfing and the subsequent changes that occur. The need to protect surf breaks, wilderness and opportunities for high-quality surfing experiences is becoming recognized as a significant challenge and a number of advocacy groups have been established to lobby for greater protection of high-quality surf breaks. Travel for surfing is a fast-growing aspect of the tourism industry. Recreational succession is correlated with the pattern of development identified in Butler's destination life-cycle model and is derived from the reaction of locals and visitors as tourism grows as postulated by Doxey's Irridex.

Development strategies for remote artisanal fishing communities in the less developed world often promote tourism as an alternative livelihood. However, little is known regarding the perspectives of fisherfolk in these communities on tourism as a potential livelihood. Furthermore, there is a paucity of research into fisherfolks' understanding of tourism, how they identify their roles for potential involvement in tourism, and their desire to be “developed.” This article reports on a case study of Barangay Victory, a remote fishing-based community in the Bolinao region of the Philippines. Twenty-one face-to-face semistructured interviews were conducted with community members. Methods were grounded within participatory action research and phenomenological inquiry. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. Using a deductive approach, data sets were manually coded and a thematic analysis was conducted. Results demonstrate that residents rely heavily upon marine resources but, despite a reported declining fishery, the majority of fisherfolk remain satisfied with fishing as an occupation. Furthermore, although respondents stated a general willingness to engage in tourism development, the understanding of tourism (both the term itself and its potential role as a livelihood) was minimal. Thus, when considering the potential of tourism as a development strategy, though participant responses were positive, the results from this study have been interpreted as a yes that means a no. This lack of understanding of tourism as well as the expressed contentment with fishing as an occupation needs to be carefully considered when development strategies propose a livelihood shift towards tourism.

Cape Rodney–Okakari Point (Goat Island) Marine Reserve, established in 1975, is New Zealand's oldest and most visited marine protected area (MPA). This study reports on the experiences of its visitors. A self-reply questionnaire (n=305) using the real-time satisfaction (RTS) measurement was utilized to investigate peak summer visitors' activities, satisfaction levels, and knowledge of marine protection. Results revealed a diversity of visitors who primarily identify the reserve as a place to “swim with the fish.” Visitors were mostly satisfied, but were dissatisfied with a number of aspects, primarily overcrowding and the lack of parking. Results indicated there is support for stronger managerial approaches to limit visitor numbers and restrict activities such as commercial tourism.

This article reports on a study that estimated the economic activity of snorkel-with-whales tourism in the small, isolated island group of Vava'u, Tonga. This research shows that these activities generate important economic and other benefits and that these benefits grew from a relatively modest USD500,000 per year in 1999 to USD5 million per year by 2009. Data from self-reply questionnaires completed by holiday-makers who traveled by aircraft (n = 499) and yacht-based visitors (n = 52) showed that whales have become the predominant attraction for visitors to these remote islands. Interviews with tour operators (n = 10) confirmed the increasing influence of whale based activities over all tourism in the Vava'u area.

Surfing has evolved from a fringe counterculture recreational activity to a multibillion dollar global industry with a diverse range of equipment and millions of participants. The growth and influence of surfing, in its myriad of forms, has not been widely researched and is scarcely reported in the aca- demic literature. This article reviews the history and development of surfing, offers definitions of surf-riding and surf-riding tourism, and proposes a typology that classifies surf-riding on the basis of four categories. Hard-core surf-riders are dedicated, focused, and have high levels of ability and commitment. recreational surf-riders range from competent to expert in ability, but they seek the "stoke" of surfing through participation, surfing a wide range of wave types and surfing as well as they can. Casual surf-riders are novices who engage in surf-riding or attempting to ride waves as part of a wider beach and water recreational experience. "kooks" are surf-riders characterized by a mismatch between their ability and the conditions they venture out into. Each of these types of surf-riders repre- sents a different sector of the surf-riding tourism market. The surf-riding typology proposed in this article can be used as a basis for understanding the activities more clearly and as a framework for future research.

Aggression is often utilised in intraspecific competition to establish and maintain dominance hierarchies in social mammals. Here, we determine if aggressiveness in conditioned botos (Inia geoffrensis) during interactions with humans under provisioning is influenced by the presence or absence of food rewards and if provisioning leads to the establishment of a dominance hierarchy among these generally solitary animals. Mean values of bites among the botos for sessions in which food rewards were delivered were significantly higher than sessions in which no food reward was delivered. No significant difference exists between the mean number of bites per individual during feeding sessions, but the mean number of bites increased significantly with time when animals were not fed. Supplant behaviours were used as a non-harming alternative to bites. The botos’ provisioning is a case of instrumental conditioning, in which the conditioned botos expect to receive food from tourists, increasing competition among the animals when they are not fed. The provisioned botos exhibited an almost linear dominance hierarchy. Bites and supplant behaviours were used more frequently by dominant botos to prevent subordinates from obtaining food provisions. Interactions brought about by provisioning are likely to be harmful to the botos and potentially dangerous to humans.

The coastal distribution of Hector’s dolphins and their attraction to vessels make them easily accessible to commercial tour operations. For over 25 yr, tour operators have been undertaking view and swim-with-dolphin trips in Akaroa Harbour, New Zealand. Since 2003, auditory stimulants, in particular stones, have been provided during such swim encounters. The potential effects associated with such stimulants have not, until now, been examined. Here, we investigate the effects of stones and other human-induced noise on Hector’s dolphin behavior. The use of stones significantly affected how dolphins interacted with swimmers. Specifically, swimmers who used stones had a greater probability of close approaches by dolphins than those who sang or simply floated on the surface of the water. The number of close and sustained approaches was also significantly higher for swimmers using stones. Dolphins were more interactive with active swimmers, approaching closer and engaging for longer than with nonactive swimmers. Dolphins socializing had a tendency to be engaged longer with swimmers. The use of stones as an auditory

Coastal and marine tourism has the potential to radically transform natural and social systems. Responsibilities for the condition of complex natural and social systems are properly addressed in the context of sustainable development. Tourism governance—regarded as more than management—concerns structures and processes that can be described and improved in accordance with societal values. Papers from the 6th International Coastal and Marine Tourism Congress illustrate how the African ubuntu dynamic gives meaning to tourism and facilitates positive touristic outcomes. Maturation of the field will be stimulated with studies of such issues as globalization and environmental change, cultural and biological diversity, social and ecological health, governance, and social and environmental justice.

Here we present the first data describing the behavior of common dolphins (Delphinus sp.) in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand. Activity budgets are used to assess the effects of diel, season, depth, sea surface temperature, group size, and composition on dolphin behavior. Additionally, the presence/absence of Bryde's whale (Balaenoptera brydei) and Australasian gannet (Morus serrator) is examined in relation to dolphin behavior. Behavioral data were collected from 686 independent dolphin groups during boat-based surveys conducted between February 2002 and January 2005. Foraging (46.7%) and social (7.2%) were the most and least frequently observed behaviors, respectively. Travel (28.9%), mill (9.5%), and rest (7.7%) accounted for the remainder of the activity budget. Behavior varied seasonally, with the highest proportion of foraging and resting groups observed during the spring and autumn, respectively. Behavior also varied with water depth, with foraging animals observed in the deepest and resting groups recorded in the shallowest regions of the Hauraki Gulf. A correlation between group size and behavior was evident, although behavior did not vary with the composition of dolphin groups. Resting, milling, and socializing animals were more frequently observed in smaller group sizes. Foraging behavior was prevalent in both small and large group sizes, suggesting foraging plasticity exists within this population. Behavior differed between single- and multispecies groups, with foraging more frequent in multispecies groups. Resting, milling, or socializing was rarely observed in the presence of any associated species, indicating the primary mechanism for association is likely prey related.

The common dolphin (Delphinus sp.) is the most frequently observed cetacean species in the Hauraki Gulf, a large shallow body of water on the northeastern coastline of North Island, New Zealand. Herein, we present the first data relating to the occurrence and distribution of common dolphins in this region and assess the possible effects of abiotic parameters on the demographics of this population. The presence of associated marine species is quantified, and differences in the occurrence and demographics of single and multi-species groups are examined. Sightings data were collected between February 2002 and January 2005 during boat-based surveys. We recorded 719 independent encounters with common dolphins, involving 1 to > 300 animals. Dolphin presence was significantly affected by month, latitude and depth. Group size varied significantly by month, season, depth, sea surface temperature (SST) and latitude, and was highly skewed towards smaller groups made up of < 50 animals. Larger aggregations were most frequent during the austral winter when nutrient upwelling typically leads to increased prey availability within the region. Over 70% of groups encountered contained immature animals and 25% of groups included neonates. Calves were observed throughout the year but were most prevalent in the austral summer months of December and January. Month, season, depth, and SST significantly affected group composition. Common dolphins were observed in association with four cetacean and eight avian species, most frequently with the Australasian gannet (Morus serrator) and the Bryde’s whale (Balaenoptera brydei). The distribution of dolphin-only groups differed significantly from that of dolphin-whale groups, with mono-specific groups found on average in waters that were 3.6 m shallower and 3.1oC warmer. The year-round occurrence and social organisation of common dolphins in Hauraki Gulf waters suggest this region is important both as a calving and nursery ground.

*School of Marine Affairs, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA †Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand ‡Oregon Agricultural Experiment Station, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA §School of Hospitality and Tourism, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand ¶New Zealand Tourism Research Institute, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand

Common dolphins Delphinus sp. are frequently targeted by tourism operations in New Zealand waters, yet there is a paucity of data on potential impacts faced by this species. Transition matrix models, used widely in population ecology, have recently been applied to behavioural transitions in order to provide successful management guidelines. We detail the use of Markov chain models to assess the impact of tourism activities on the behavioural state of common dolphins in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand. First-order time discrete Markov chain models were used to describe transition probabilities in both control and impact scenarios. The effect of boat interactions was quantified by comparing transition probabilities of both control and impact chains. Foraging and rest- ing bouts were significantly disrupted by boat interactions to a level that raises concern about the sustainability of this impact. Both the duration of bouts and the overall time spent in these 2 be- havioural states decreased. Foraging dolphins took significantly longer to return to their initial behavioural state in the presence of the tour boat. There was also an increased preference to shift behaviour to socialising or milling after tour boat interactions. Impacts identified in the present study are similar to those previously reported for bottlenose dolphins, a coastal species typically considered to be more susceptible to cumulative anthropogenic impacts.

Trace elements, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine (OC) pesticide levels were determined in tissues collected from stranded and bycaught common dolphins (Delphinus sp.) from New Zealand waters between 1999 and 2005. The concentrations of mercury (Hg), selenium (Se), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), tin (Sn), lead (Pb), arsenic (As) and silver (Ag) were determined in blubber, liver and kidney tissue. PCBs (45 congeners) and a range of OC pesticides including dieldrin, hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and its metabolites DDE and DDD were determined in blubber samples. Cr and Ni were not detected in any of the samples and concentrations of Co, Sn and Pb were generally low. Concentrations of Hg ranged from 0.17 to 110 mg/kg wet weight. Organochlorine pesticides dieldrin, HCB, o,p'-DDT and p,p'-DDE were present at the highest concentrations. Sum DDT concentrations in the blubber ranged from 17 to 337 and 654 to 4430 microg/kg wet weight in females and males, respectively. Similarly, Sigma45CB concentrations ranged from 49 to 386 and 268 to 1634 microg/kg wet weight in females and males, respectively. The mean transmission of SigmaDDTs and ICES7CBs between a genetically determined mother-offspring pair was calculated at 46% and 42%, respectively. Concentrations of organochlorine pesticides determined in the present study are within similar range to those reported for Hector's dolphins (Cephalorhyncus hectori) from inshore New Zealand waters.

Short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) often are found in large aggregations offshore from the eastern coast of New Zealand. They are the primary target of at least six marine mammal tourism operations from Whakatane to the Hauraki Gulf. This report details the first longterm investigation of interactions between tourists and common dolphins. During a 3-y study offshore from Whitianga on the Coromandel Peninsula, 105 focal group follows, totaling 118 h of observations were conducted from a 5.5-m, rigid-hull inflatable boat. Seventy-two of these observations were conducted in the absence of the tour boat (baseline), and 33 with the tour boat. Baseline data were compared with “tour boat” data to assess changes in dolphin behaviour resulting from the tour boat approaching and swimmers entering the water to snorkel with the dolphins. Common dolphins responded with a relatively predictable pattern to approaching boats. Initial attraction (mean duration 8 min) typically was followed by neutral behaviour (mean duration 57 min) and eventually replaced by boat avoidance. Smaller dolphin groups showed boat avoidance sooner and more frequently than larger groups. When swimmers entered the water, dolphins only spent an average of 2 min in their vicinity. Throughout encounters, they maintained a distance of at least 3 m from the nearest swimmer. During half of the attempted swims, dolphins did not change their course or their activity in response to swimmers. Swimmers had a better chance of a sustained interaction when the group of dolphins was large (> 50 individuals) and/or the number of swimmers in the water was small (< 5). The results of this study suggested that common dolphins can be affected by tourism; however, adherence to New Zealand’s Marine Mammals Protection Regulations and the current low level of tourism appear to minimise the impact on this species.

1 Title derived from Robert Sapolsky’s (1994) Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers. A Guide to Stress, Stress Related Diseases, and Coping. Address correspondence to Mark Orams, Coastal–Marine Research Group, Massey University at Albany, Private Bag 102 904, North Shore MSC, New Zealand. Tel: (64 9) 443 9799; Fax: (64 9) 441 8109; E-mail: M.B.Orams@massey.ac.nz WHY DOLPHINS MAY GET ULCERS: CONSIDERING THE IMPACTS OF

Common dolphins, Delphinus sp., are one of the marine mammal species tourism operations in New Zealand focus on. While effects of cetacean-watching activities have previously been examined in coastal regions in New Zealand, this study is the first to investigate effects of commercial tourism and recreational vessels on common dolphins in an open oceanic habitat. Observations from both an independent research vessel and aboard commercial tour vessels operating off the central and east coast Bay of Plenty, North Island, New Zealand were used to assess dolphin behaviour and record the level of compliance by permitted commercial tour operators and private recreational vessels with New Zealand regulations. Dolphin behaviour was assessed using two different approaches to Markov chain analysis in order to examine variation of responses of dolphins to vessels. Results showed that, regardless of the variance in Markov methods, dolphin foraging behaviour was significantly altered by boat interactions. Dolphins spent less time foraging during interactions and took significantly longer to return to foraging once disrupted by vessel presence. This research raises concerns about the potential disruption to feeding, a biologically critical behaviour. This may be particularly important in an open oceanic habitat, where prey resources are typically widely dispersed and unpredictable in abundance. Furthermore, because tourism in this region focuses on common dolphins transiting between adjacent coastal locations, the potential for cumulative effects could exacerbate the local effects demonstrated in this study. While the overall level of compliance by commercial operators was relatively high, non-compliance to the regulations was observed with time restriction, number or speed of vessels interacting with dolphins not being respected. Additionally, prohibited swimming with calves did occur. The effects shown in this study should be carefully considered within conservation management plans, in order to reduce the risk of detrimental effects on common dolphins within the region.

The growth of whale-watching internationally has been spectacular. It now occurs in almost 100 countries and is estimated to be worth in excess of U.S.$1 billion each year in revenue. Thus, whales have become valuable as a resource for tourism. The Vava'u island group in the northern part of the Kingdom of Tonga in the South Pacific is an area with a growing reputation as a whale-watching destination. However, the industry is relatively new there and the impacts of whale-based tourism in these islands is, as yet, unknown. In addition, there has been a recent consideration of a return to hunting whales in Tonga. As a result, concerns regarding the value of these animals for tourism and the potential impact of a return to hunting have arisen. Consequently, a study was designed to provide a preliminary assessment of the economic impacts of these animals for the island community. This study estimates that humpback whales may be worth in excess of U.S.$700,000 annually as a tourism attraction and that there is...

Photo‐identification has been established as a helpful tool in cetacean research. However, no study to date has attempted to apply this method to short‐beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis L.). We present here the results of two studies that were conducted concurrently in Mercury Bay and the Hauraki Gulf on the north‐east coast of New Zealand's North Island. Methods for distinguishing between individual dolphins are discussed. Sighting records of recognisable individuals indicate that some common dolphins move between Mercury Bay and the Hauraki Gulf (100 km distance), as well as between Mercury Bay and Whakatane (200 km distance). Common dolphin abundance and site fidelity appeared to be greater in the Hauraki Gulf than in Mercury Bay. A selection of photographs of distinct individuals is presented to allow future studies to compare their sighting records to ours, which may help establish the extent of home ranges, site fidelity, and possibly even longevity for common dolphins.

The feeding of wildlife has become a popular means by which tourists and tourism operators can facilitate close observation and interaction with wildlife in the wild. These practices are widespread and have a variety of impacts on the wildlife—and on the tourists. Deliberate and long-term provision of food to wildlife has been shown to alter natural behaviour patterns and population levels. It has also resulted in the dependency of animals on the human provided food and their habituation to human contact. Intra- and inter-species aggression has also occurred where wildlife, in their efforts to obtain food, have harmed one another and harmed tourists. There are also important health implications arising from artificial food sources where injury and disease have resulted. While the great majority of cases show negative impacts arising from supplemental feeding of wildlife, this is not always the case. Certainly there are psychological, social and economic benefits that are experienced on the human side of the interaction and, in a limited number of cases, the wildlife can be shown to have benefited as well. The issue of feeding wildlife for tourism is a controversial one with little consensus regarding how it should be managed. Approaches range from complete prohibition, to active promotion and management, to simply ignoring the practices. Little empirical research, inconsistent management and differing views of the role of animals in humans’ lives ensure that this issue will remain a contentious one worthy of further examination and consideration.

The Vava'u island group in the northern part of the Kingdom of Tonga in the South Pacific has a growing reputation as a whale-watching destination. The pro-whaling organisation, the World Council of Whalers, with some local people, has, however, been actively promoting a resumption of whaling in Tonga. This study assesses the attitudes and characteristics of 'whale tourists' to the islands. Seventy-eight per cent of all tourists arriving by air, and around half those arriving by yacht, went whale watching. Both types of visitor opposed whale hunting; both types said they would be less likely to visit the islands if whales were hunted there. Consequently, any resumption of whaling or change in the protected status of whales would be likely to displace a large proportion of current visitors to Vava'u, resulting in a serious 'opportunity cost'. It seems unlikely that a whale-watching industry could coexist with a lethal use of whales in Tonga.

To date research on whale-watching has tended to focus on impacts on the whales. Management approaches often rely on minimum approach distances. An associated assumption is that whale-watchers wish to get close to whales. Studies of motivation for other recreational activities show that humans seldom undertake recreational activities for simplistic reasons. Thus, this study was developed to determine the influences over whale-watchers’ enjoyment, more specifically, to assess the importance of the geographical proximity of whales. Twelve whale-watch cruises at Tangalooma, Australia were surveyed and 704 questionnaires analysed. Results showed the number of whales and their behaviour, numbers of fellow passengers, cruise duration, boat construction and sea-sickness influenced satisfaction. The geographical proximity of the whales was not a major influence. Many whale-watchers (35 per cent) returned satisfied even when no whales were sighted. Whale-watching is not simply about getting close to whales, many other variables are important. A better understanding of the watchers, as well as the whales, will assist in the sustainable management of this growing tourism industry.

The use of self-reply questionnaires as a data collection instrument is common in tourism research. However, while there is a long tradition of use of these instruments in social science research, there has been little discussion of the particular needs and challenges created by tourism situations. This paper blends both theory, practical and experience to suggest a range of issues and guidelines which researchers may find useful in preparing a self-reply questionnaire. A number of technical issues associated with surveys are also addressed. A number of principles and examples of good practice from the literature on survey methods and survey design together with the problems of using this positivist mode of data collection in tourism scenarios are developed.

The effectiveness of an education program for tourists who hand-feed wild dolphins at Tangalooma, Moreton Island, in eastern Australia, was evaluated. Data were gathered on tourist behavior during feeding sessions before and after the education policy was implemented. Results demonstrated that, after implementation of the education program, inappropriate behaviors such as touching of dolphins were significantly reduced. The study supports the claim that education is an important strategy when compliance with management regulations is necessary to protect wildlife in ecotourism settings.