Temporal distribution of cetaceans south of Pico Island (Azores, Portugal) - data obtained during whale-watching 2020

Abstract

Land- and boat-based surveys were conducted to collect data during whale watching excursions in July/August and October 2020. Occurrence and distribution of cetaceans south of Pico Island (Azores) were determined. Ten species were sighted, 63 schools of Delphinids and 96 individuals of large whales. The most frequently sighted species were: Sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus), Sei whale (Balaenoptera borealis), Atlantic spotted dolphin (Stenella frontalis), Common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), and Rissos dolphin (Grampus griseus). An unusual high numbers of sightings of Sei whale in August and especially in October was noticed, and is not mentioned in the literature so far.