Abstract

Cetaceans are wide ranging animals that travel across regional and international boundaries and their research and management is dependent on the collaboration of researchers and governments. By sharing and combining data between regions, it is possible to reveal whale movement patterns, migration routes, and determine breeding and feeding area linkages, allowing for a greater understanding of the whale populations in the Caribbean. In particular, the seasonal abundance and distribution for most cetacean species in the northeastern Caribbean are poorly known, and hence the importance of documentation of current data for the BVI. Our current programs objectives are to: 1) To estimate the density, richness, abundance, group sizes and distribution of cetaceans in BVI waters; 2) Determine if the north side of Anegada is part of the winter aggregation sites for Humpback whales; 3) Identify and monitor whales on an individual level for reference and comparison among regions; 4) Increase knowledge about the whales migration patterns/routes within the Caribbean; 5) Educate local communities; 6) Provide recommendations on conservation/management measures. Our main study area, the Anegada Horseshoe Reef, is the third largest contiguous reef in the Eastern Caribbean at 63 km (39 miles) long, containing both patch reefs and barrier reefs. From unpublished reports and personal observations by local Anegadians, whales are commonly seen in the north side of the Island during winter season, therefore, we chose to focus on this area. We intend to carry out pilot surveys throughout 2023 in order to evaluate the sampling scheme and correct any flaws in the protocol. Our official surveys began February, 2023 and are still ongoing. We use a combination of non-invasive methods: passive acoustic, visual surveys and citizen science.