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Characterizing human interactions with bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in Tampa Bay.

Authors :
MacQueeney, Meredith
Collier, Michelle A. M.
Simard, Peter
Gowans, Shannon
Source :
Human Dimensions of Wildlife. 2022, Vol. 27 Issue 4, p397-406. 10p.
Publication Year :
2022

Abstract

Human interaction (HI) is known to disturb cetaceans. Regional wildlife interaction guidelines exist to mitigate harmful impacts, but the efficacy of these guidelines is understudied. HI with bottlenose dolphins was documented opportunistically in Tampa Bay from 2009 to 2018. Vessel compliance to the guidelines was low with 80% of encounters being non-compliant. HI was observed in 33% of days in the field and in 22% of dolphin sightings. Poisson regression identified vessel type as a strong key factor related to compliance, with faster more maneuverable boats more likely to be non-compliant. Additionally, HI involved recreational vessels much more frequently than tourism vessels. These results likely underestimate true HI rates because of sampling limitations. Researchers should opportunistically document HI including vessel characteristics and vessel behavior to help quantify compliance. When developing HI guidelines and their promotion, managers should carefully consider which stakeholders engage in HI to best direct resources to that audience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
10871209
Volume :
27
Issue :
4
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Human Dimensions of Wildlife
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
157509020
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1080/10871209.2021.1950241