Humpback Whales of the Pitcairn Islands

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There are 15 distinct populations of Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) worldwide with an estimated 162,380 individuals. Historic whaling activities decimated these populations. Globally, humpbacks are categorised as Least Concern by the IUCN with numbers of individuals increasing, due to international bans on whaling. However, there are two subpopulations that are considered endangered including the Oceanic subpopulation. This study will examine a new subpopulation of humpbacks in the Pitcairn Islands, South Pacific. Prior to 1990, this subpopulation was not recorded in the Pitcairn Islands. This site is now thought to be an important breeding habitat for this subpopulation. However, the true relationship of these animals to the wider populations remains unknown, leaving critical policy-relevant knowledge gaps concerning their vulnerability, recovery potential and conservation value. Remote fieldwork will be carried out during the austral winter of the study subpopulation between July-September 2023 and September 2024. This project will employ photo identification, photogrammetry, biopsy sampling, blow sampling, whale song recording and bioacoustic analysis, and species distribution modelling. Not only does the arrival of humpback whales at Pitcairn present an opportunity for research into the habitat suitability and population dynamics, but it provides the prospect of increased tourism and economic benefit to the Pitcairn community. This project will also address the socio-ecological benefits ecotourism at Pitcairn, looking at community perceptions as an indicator of impact along with the Marine Protected Area effectiveness.