Escolar Documentos
Profissional Documentos
Cultura Documentos
GVI Kenya
Submitted in part to
World Society for the Protection of Animals
Produced by
Graham Corti – Country Director
Rachel Crouthers – Expedition Leader
Hugo Felix – Marine Officer
Jake Bicknell – Terrestrial Officer
Sara Trafford – Community Officer
Alex Mayers– Community Officer
And
Supplied manpower and training to Kenya Wildlife Service, and alternative income
and indirect funding to members of the Mkwiro community.
Provided free local capacity building in terms of English language lessons,
environmental education, development of alternative income generation and
training in scientific survey techniques.
Cetacean monitoring programme. In collaboration with Kenya Wildlife Service
(KWS) and Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KEMFRI)
Marine mega fauna surveys. In collaboration with KWS and Kenya Sea Turtle
Conservation Committee.
Wetland Avian Species list. In collaboration with KWS.
Coastal forest primate populations, faunal biodiversity, floral biodiversity and levels
of human resource use. In collaboration with KWS,
Initiated and supported ecological and cultural tourism initiatives.
Developed working relationships with Kenya Sea Turtle Conservation Committee
(KESCOM), World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) and a number of
community based organisations to support and develop scientific research and
local capacity building.
Facilitated promotion of local community based organisations’ ventures.
Enabled local communities to benefit from support provided by Expedition
Members on their return to their home countries through fund-raising and
sponsorship.
List of Figures
Figure 2-1. Discovery curve for wetland bird surveys.
Figure 2-2. Number of conducted surveys by group size from the different dolphin species.
Figure 2-3. Number of sightings by hour of effort from the different dolphin species.
Figure 2-5. Transects in the Shimoni forest along the Shimoni Peninsula,
Figure 2-8. Mean canopy cover for transect sections. Circle size represents percent cover.
Figure 2-10. EMs painting the sign for the Mkwiro Primary School.
Figure 2-12. English with the Kasaani and Kidong Ex- poacher groups.
List of Tables
Table 1-1. Dolphin species present in the coast of Kenyan (Peddemonns V.M, 1999).
Table 1-2. Vessel based dolphin sightings, behaviour and photo ID surveys.
The Global Vision International Kenya expedition was initiated in January 2006 and is
based on Wasini Island on the South coast of Kenya, in the community of Mkwiro village.
Wasini Island lies approximately 1km South of the Shimoni peninsula in Kwale District,
Coast Province, close to the border with Tanzania. Expedition activities are centered
around the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Protected Area (KMMPA), which lies to the South of
Wasini Island, and falls under the jurisdiction and management of the Kenya Wildlife
Service (KWS). The marine programme research activities are undertaken within the
KMMPA and surrounding areas incorporating Wasini Channel, Funzi Bay and Sii Island.
The terrestrial research programme is focused on an area of coastal forest in the South-
East corner of Shimoni peninsula, close to Shimoni village. The majority of activities
under the community programme are focused on Mkwiro village, with some activities
that support community initiatives in Shimoni village. Community development activities
are also being developed in Kidong, Mahandakini, Kasaani and Mtakuja. These are rural
villages based near Taveta, Taveta-Taita District between the Western boundary of
Tsavo West National Park and the border of Tanzania.
2.1 Introduction
Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Protected Area (KMMPA) lies south of Wasini Island and covers
an area of 39 square kilometres. The KMMPA includes the National Park surrounding
Kisite Island and the Marine Reserve surrounding the Mpunguti islands. The KMMPA
and the marine wildlife it contains are an important tourist attraction and, as a result, an
important resource for Shimoni and surrounding communities. The islands within the
KMMPA are surrounded by coral reefs attracting divers and snorkelers to the area.
Almost every day swim-with-dolphin and dolphin-watching companies operating from
Shimoni travel through Wasini Channel to the KMMPA (Emerton and Tessema 2001).
These tourist dhows most frequently encounter Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins
(Tursiops aduncus), and less frequently, Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa
chinensis). Currently, there is neither a code of conduct to follow when manoeuvring
around the dolphins nor are levels of interaction monitored or regulated in any way. The
impact these activities may be having is unknown. In particular, it’s not known whether
increased or even current levels of dolphin tourism are sustainable for local dolphin
populations.
Very little scientific research has been conducted on the cetaceans of East Africa and
little information is available on even the baseline ecology of these species. Baseline
data is required before the impact of dolphin tourism can be accurately assessed
(Stensland et al. 1998). The main objectives of the marine research programme are to
obtain baseline ecological and demographic data on the dolphin species that occur in
the KMMPA and surrounding waters. The study area encompasses a wide range of
habitats; mangrove forests, coral reefs, inter-tidal rocky reefs, sea grass beds and
offshore areas.
GVI Kenya’s main working partner is the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). The research
conducted by GVI will be shaped to satisfy the objectives of KWS, so as to assist them
towards better management of the area. All data collected thus far is made available to
KWS to aid in management plans of the study area.
During the initial phase of the marine programme research will focus on assessing
dolphin species abundance. Later, parameters such as demographic composition,
residency and diel movement patterns will be analysed.
Mega fauna species are also attractive to tourists and as such a valuable resource for
the Shimoni and Wasini Island communities. Their conservation is important for the
protection of marine biological diversity on a number of levels. Another objective of the
marine research programme is to obtain information on the occurrence of marine mega
fauna within the study area. This information can then be utilised by our working partners
to manage the area accordingly.
2.2 Aims
During the first year of operations the marine programme of GVI Kenya has completed
initial research activities to determine species distribution within the KMMPA and
surrounding areas. Research questions were established to ensure that all the research
methodologies used were able to obtain the relevant information to satisfy objectives set
by KWS.
The marine programme aims to collect data to address the following questions on
dolphins and mega fauna in Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Protected Area and its surrounding
areas.
2.3 Methods
During expedition 071 GVI East Africa used one research vessel, Stingray a 5.83m
catamaran style power vessel with two, 85 horsepower Yamaha two-stroke motors.
Photographs were taken using a Canon EOS 350D digital camera (75-300 ml lens).
All depths were taken with a Speedtech depth sounder.
Summit marine binoculars 7x50 were used for land base surveys.
All geographical positions and speeds were taken with a Garmin Etrex GPS.
Photo-identification
Photo-ID survey times vary and are dependant on group size, activity and environmental
conditions. All photographs are taken from the vessel as it manoeuvres into position to
get the best angle, lighting and clear shot of dorsal fins. During a photo ID survey the
photographer informs the scribe of spacer shots (to separate groups or surveys) and
number of shots taken in order to separate frames into individuals. The aim during a
photo ID survey is to photograph the right and left flank of each individual. Making note
of frame numbers and groups of dolphins assists with latter analysis of photographs from
different surveys (Parsons 2001).
The primary aim of photo-ID in this study will be to determine population size for the
different dolphin species and habitat use for the KMMPA area. Once photographs are
downloaded onto the computer they are saved into the photo-ID database. For the first
year this database was copied into various users, and analysed individually by all users.
Each user quality grades the photos into categories including: deleted, tail flukes, spacer
shots, and quality categories which range from 0 (poor quality, distant, out of focus,
partial images) to 3 (perfect photo-ID shots). Users then identify individuals by using
permanent identifying marks or features. Once the users agree on the recognition of
individuals a photo-ID catalogue will be created in which individuals are given unique ID
numbers and names. This is an important procedure allowing for future re-sighting of
individuals on a long-term basis (Parsons 2001). Over time the information from this
database will provide additional information such as associations and calving intervals.
Mark-recapture methods can be used to calculate population size from the proportion of
known individuals re-sighted over the study period. In order for mark-recapture methods
to yield accurate results a number of conditions must be met:
A marked animal will always be recognised if it’s seen again. In order to satisfy this
assumption; only stable, long-term distinguishing features should be used to
recognise individuals.
Samples of individuals must be representative of the population being estimated. If
‘marked’ individuals (recognisable individuals that have been photographed) do not
mix fully with the rest of the population this assumption is violated.
‘Marking’ (photographing) an individual does not affect the probability of that
individual being recaptured.
Within one sampling occasion, every individual in the population should have the
same probability of being ‘captured’ (photographed). To reduce the risk of this
assumption being violated as many individuals should be captured as possible.
The population must be closed i.e. no emigration or immigration.
Equation 1
(m2) = n1
n2 N
The number of individuals captured and marked is known which allows the population
size to be estimated (Ň):
Equation 2
The photo-ID survey protocol provides a systematic approach for sampling the
behaviour of free-ranging dolphins. As part of this protocol a Dolphin Behaviour Survey
is used to record basic behaviour data when conditions allowed a dolphin survey to be
conducted.
The survey is based on focal group sampling (Mann 2000) over a period of 10 minutes.
Focal group sampling involves recording the group behaviour by assessing what state
the majority of individuals is engaged in, events that occur during the survey period are
also recorded. Cetacean behaviours can be distinguished between events (short
duration behaviours) that include: rapid surfaces, tail slaps, leaps and states (long-
duration behaviours) such as: resting, travelling, foraging and socialising (Mann 2000).
Group composition and group dive durations are also taken into account during the
survey. To obtain group composition a group of dolphins is for this study defined as two
individuals that are within 100 m of each other. If a new group comes within the 100 m
radius of the first, this will be considered a sub- group and therefore surveyed as a sub-
group, in the same form. As for recording dive times an ordinary time clock is used, the
dive time starts when the last animal of the group dives, and ends when the first surface
is sighted.
Four forms were used to incorporate the above methodologies and collect information on
population size, demographics and behaviour, these forms are: Event Log, Sightings
form, Dolphin Survey form and Photo ID form, a fifth form comes into place when mega
fauna is sighted, Mega fauna Survey form.
Event Log
Throughout the survey day an Event Log (Appendix A) is completed. On this data sheet
the search effort throughout the day is recorded along with number of surveys completed
At the beginning of the day and at every interval of data collection the recorder notes the
following:
1. Date
2. Vessel name
3. Time (24 hour clock)
4. Co-ordinates (GPS)
5. Event (see Appendix A)
6. Dolphin Survey number (each day surveys begin as DS01, DS02, etc.)
7. Vessel speed (using GPS)
8. Environmental conditions (see Appendix A)
9. Additional comments
Sightings Form
The Sightings form (Appendix B) is used to record sightings of dolphins and mega fauna.
This form was put into place to gather information about habitat distribution and in the
future study distance sampling data (distance and angle of the sighting). The recorder
notes if the sighting occurred due to exterior factors (e.g. presence of tourist vessels or
land base information). This information is then included in the analysis to note any
sightings that may have been missed by the naked eye or if the vessel was simply not in
the same area as the sighting.
Once dolphins or mega fauna are sighted, the recorder documents the following data
into the sightings form.
Dolphin surveys commence once the species is identified (Table 1-1.), using a focal
group sampling (Mann 2000) over a 10-minute period.
Table 1-1. Dolphin species present in the coast of Kenyan (Peddemonns V.M, 1999).
Highlighted in bold the species encountered up to date.
Depth is taken for habitat notes with a depth sounder. Vessel interaction is also recorded
during this survey to assess the impact that the research vessel may have on dolphin
behaviour. This is recorded by noting whether the dolphins react away from, toward or
not at all to the survey vessel. Behaviour is analysed according to an Ethogram
(Appendix D).
Photo ID Form
Staff members perform all photographic documentation in the field. During photo-ID the
vessel manoeuvres into a better position to obtain the optimum distance and angle for
photographs to be taken (Parsons 2001).
Photo-ID is conducted after the behaviour survey; during behaviour surveys only
opportunistic photographs are taken. During a photo-ID survey the photographer tells the
photo-ID scribe the frame numbers, spacer shots, recognisable or distinct individuals
and the number of shots taken (Appendix E).
1. Time
2. Vessel
3. GPS Co-ordinates
Land base studies were conducted during the mornings from 07:30am to 12pm. The site
is located at S 04.65860º E 39.40076 º on an elevated cliff at approximately 9.7m from
sea level on the North East end of Wasini Island. This location was chosen because it
covers both coastal and deeper waters. Land based research platforms are ideal for
studies of anthropogenic impact without any direct influence (Bejder and Samuels 2003).
There are two primary observers and one scribe present on every survey. The three
recorders rotate every 15 minutes to ensure that each person receives a 15-minute eye
break every half hour. One observer uses 7x50 Summit marine binoculars, scanning an
area of approximately 1.5km to 3km from the land base location. The second observer
scans an area approximately 0-1.5km from the same location using the unaided eye.
The third person is scribing, noting any environmental changes, the number of tourist
dhows travelling from West to East towards the marine park, dolphin or mega fauna
presence and dolphin behaviour, all the information is recorded in 3 forms and a map, to
plot dolphin movements during the observation period and mega fauna sightings.
During the land based survey the Environment and Boat Event Log (Appendix G) is
completed on the quarter of the hour and when environmental conditions change..
1. Date
2. Time (24hr clock)
3. Observers
4. Environmental conditions (Appendix G)
5. Number of vessels
6. Vessel type
7. Proximity of tourist dhows to the dolphins
8. Swim with dolphin occurrences
9. Additional comments
When dolphins or mega fauna are sighted, the scribe documents the following
information into the sighting form (Appendix H):
1. Time
2. Observers
3. Bearing and distance to sighting
4. Species
5. Group size
6. Dive type
7. Duration of dive
8. Spread
9. Number in correlation to plotted on chart
10. Additional information
Map
This data sheet was introduced on 6th June 2006 to gain a greater insight about dolphin
behaviour before, during and after vessel presence. Observations were recorded every 5
minutes from the initial sighting (Appendix I).
1. Time
2. Dive type (Appendix I)
3. Dive duration
4. Species
5. Group size
6. Number of vessels present
7. Vessel type
8. Number of Tourist vessels
9. Number of dhow conducting swim with dolphins
10. If dolphins split into sub groups
11. If their view is obstructed
An avian survey was conducted (Appendix J) in the mangrove area on the South side of
Wasini Island. There is little known about the diversity of bird species within and around
the KMMPA. This study came into place to help KWS collate baseline data on general
avian presence within the KMMPA, identifying any rare or endemic species and
edification sites. The current aim of the survey is to compile a species list for the area,
moving then to other study sites with more specific aims.
The survey is conducted on a line transect along high, mid and low tides recording every
species and number of individuals sited in one hour duration (Bibby, et al. 1998), GPS
A dolphin behaviour survey was experimented during this expedition, the survey
focussing on dolphin behaviour and boat interaction. It is based on a time sampling
check sheet using behaviour sampling as a method (Martin and Bateson 1993), and
consists on ticking different dive types, possible stress signals and major social
interactions within the group during sequential 5 minute recording intervals. In each 5
minute interval, the scribes record number of vessels present, direction within individuals
of the group and movement of the group. Dive times are also recorded preferably from
mother calf pairs, if not possible from a distinct individual or a group dive. All this
information is separated in 3 different forms each one with 3 categories for the behaviour
(dives, social interaction, possible stress), another form records the interaction (number
of vessels, dive times, movement).
2.6 Results
60
50
40
Number of species
30
20
10
0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20
Survey
From the 18-wetland bird surveys a species list was compiled with the 52 species found.
(See Appendix K)
For the different dolphin species the number of sightings was linked with vessel effort
hours (Figure 2-3.). This link showed a distinct interval with a higher number of sightings,
which was between 10:01 and 11:00am.
18
17
16
14
12
10
Number of surveys
8
8
7
Bnd
6 Hbd
6
Spd
2
2
1 1 1 1
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0
1-5 6-10 11-15 16-20 21-25 > 25
Group size
Figure 2-2. Number of conducted surveys by group size from the different dolphin species.
20
20
Number of Sightings
15
Bnd
Hbd
Spd
10
10
5 4 4
3
2 2
1 1
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0
7-8 8:01-9 9:01-10 10:01-11 11:01-12 12:01-13
Hours (24h)
Figure 2-3. Number of sightings by hour of effort from the different dolphin species.
The dolphin and turtle spatial distribution for the research area, presented a
considerable amount of encounters outside of the Marine Protected Area (Figure 2-4.).
All the S. chinensis surveys were along the Wasini Channel, a great number of surveys
with T. aduncus were located along the East coast of Wasini Island and all the S.
longirostris surveys took place South-East of the Protected Area. Only turtles are more
widely distributed across the study area.
In relation to dolphin behaviour the following Table 1-5, 1-6 and 1-7 show the different
behaviours according to tidal states. These results were obtained from the Dolphin
Behaviour form (section 3.4.1).None of the behaviour data shown in this report will have
further analysis (see Discussion).
No results from the experimental behaviour survey or land base behaviour surveys will
be analysed in this report (see Discussion).
2.7 Discussion
Following the first year of GVI´s marine programme, this expedition continued to collect
information on the baseline ecology of dolphin and turtles within the KMMPA and
surrounding waters. Part of the data from the first 3 months of this year was compiled
showing dolphin and turtle distribution in the area. (Figure 2-4.). This will prove to be
useful on an annual basis, showing distribution and habitat preferences of each species
throughout the year. This information in alliance with behaviour protocols can then
provide researchers with a glimpse of the biology and interaction with the surrounding
environment from the different species. Unfortunately this “alliance” has not taken place
as the previous behaviour methodology proved not to be appropriate for this area or
provid the desirable data. Due to these factors, this was the last time we will utilise this
methodology. Although an experimental behaviour protocol took place, the results are
not displayed in this report, as it has little bibliographic support from Cetacean behaviour
Land base behaviour protocol also needs more consistent data to be analysed and
tested for its applicability to the research area.
3.1 Introduction
The Eastern Arc forests of Kenya and Tanzania are an internationally recognised
biodiversity hotspot. They support high levels of endemism and important populations of
species that have wide-ranging, but fragmented distributions, and so remain vulnerable.
Tanzania’s Eastern Arc mountains are renowned for their communities of endemic
amphibians, reptiles and mammals. The coastal forests of Kenya form the northern
fringe of the Eastern Arc forests, however much less is known about these unique and
important, yet diminishing forest habitats.
The coastal forests around Shimoni and Wasini Island form a thin strip of ‘coral rag
forest’, officially labelled Northern Zanzibar-Inhambane Lowland Coastal Forest. This
forest zone is found along the coastal areas of Kenya, Tanzania and Somalia, and is
formed on ancient coral reef exposed by falling sea levels, leaving limestone rock and
shallow soils. In conjunction with relatively high salinity levels and coastal climatic
influences, the plant community and the structure of the forest favour shallow root
systems, which reduce stability. This makes these forest habitats highly susceptible to
erosion processes and hence at risk from the influences of deforestation in the wider
Shimoni area. The specialised flora that is found in these habitats supports and sustains
rare and endemic species which are of particular interest to biological conservation, and
sustainable livelihoods through responsible tourism.
200m
Figure 2-5. Transects in the Shimoni forest along the Shimoni Peninsula.
3.2 Aims
The aims of the terrestrial research programme are as follows;
Conduct primate community surveys to assess population size & density,
distribution, habitat use and demography.
Conduct behaviour surveys to examine the time budgets and habitat use of C. a.
palliatus in the Shimoni area.
Conduct vegetation and regeneration surveys to assess biodiversity, species
composition and regeneration-potential under different levels of disturbance.
Conduct disturbance surveys to assess and monitor levels of resource use
including extraction of poles and timber in addition to other forms of
anthropogenic activity.
3.3 Methods
The overall methodology for the terrestrial research programme is structured around a
transect grid system utilising east-west straight line transects (Figure 2-5). Parallel
transects are spaced at 200 metre intervals, facilitating a 100 metre survey distance
either side of the transects. This follows the Tropical Ecology, Assessment and
Monitoring (TEAM) Initiative Primate Monitoring Protocol.
Transects are divided into 50m sections to enable the survey data to be categorised
accurately, and facilitate distribution mapping. A north-south ‘spine’ is used to ensure the
200m separation between parallel transects and to aid access.
The study area contains six transects; transect 1, the furthest south, runs approximately
100 metres from the coastal edge. The total survey area is 220ha or 2.2km 2. Table 1-8
summarises the total number of sections and lengths of each transect.
1 17 850
2 34 1700
3 48 2400
4 43 2150
5 39 1950
6 38 1900
Total 219 10950
Three species of anthropoid coexist in the Shimoni forest. The Angolan black and white
colobus monkey (Colobus angolensis palliatus), the Syke’s monkey (Cercopithecus
(nictitans) mitis albogularis), and the yellow baboon (Papio cynocephalus). The primate
community surveys are based on distance sampling methods, utilising two nominated
observers whilst additional members of the team ensure they do not draw attention to
primates not detected by the observers. This maintains consistency of effort, to enable
the quantifiable analysis of data used in estimating primate densities (Buckland et al.
2001).
Primate surveys are conducted along one transect at a time, during the mornings when
primates are more likely to be active. When groups of primates are spotted, the sighting
distance (distance from the observer on the transect line to the geometric centre the
group) is estimated and recorded. Distance sampling requires the perpendicular
distance from the transect line to the geometric centre of the group. This is calculated
using trigonometry, hence the sighting angle (using a compass) and distance from the
observer to the centre of the primate group is measured.
The behaviour of a primate group when first observed is recorded, along with primate
species and group size. Where possible, time is taken to summarise the demography of
the group. Sex and age class is most easily recognized in C. a. palliatus; 0-3 months
(infant), 3-6 months (juvenile) and >6 months (adult). Age classes were selected on the
basis of pelt colouration enabling confidence in accurate categorisation rather than
attempting to estimate using relative body size. Ages classes and sexes were not
assumed in C. (n.) m. albogularis and P. cynocephalus.
After a trial-run of various methods during the last expedition, continuous, focal individual
sampling was chosen in order to establish C. a. palliatus time budgets. Time budgets
can be used to establish conditions and constraints under which animals are living. The
most suitable conditions promote greater carrying capacities and hence higher densities
(Fimbel et al. 2001), as well as less vulnerability to changes in habitat condition. Time
budgets can also be used in examining predator pressures by analysing the relative time
spent vigilant. This data is then used to compare with other populations of the same
species, and on other species and sub-species.
Focal individuals are surveyed in ten-minute blocks, measuring behaviours which are
broken into states and events. States are measured in real-time durations, as opposed
to events which are recorded only as frequencies logged within each ten-minute time
block. States represent behaviours of longer durations; for example feeding, sleeping,
States and events are categorised under strict parameters, and outlined in the ethogram,
which is used to ensure consistency between observers and comparability between
surveys.
Surveys are conducted at all times of the daylight hours in order to measure a
representative portion of time budgets throughout the day. Data recording is only
initiated after a period of at least 10 minutes to reduce bias caused by the arrival of the
observers. If the focal individual moves out of view and observers are unable to
confidently identify the same individual upon reappearing, the survey is ended. There is
no set survey time limit.
Bird species diversity, abundance and density are estimated through the use of bird
point counts. East Africa represents one of 218 worldwide Endemic Bird Areas,
(Stattersfield et al. 1998) and birds are important components of forest ecosystems as
well as indicators of habitat disturbance. Many bird species are dependent on readily
available stocks of fruits, flowers and seeds, and the presence or absence of seasonal
birds indicate the seasonality of these forest commodities. Birds such as large raptors
also represent the only existing predators of primate species in the area.
Early morning point count surveys are conducted along the transect lines at 100 metre
intervals. The point count is delineated by a 50m x 50m x ∞ box. Numbers and species
of birds which enter this box are recorded for ten minutes before moving onto the next
point count. A five minute settle-down period of silence precedes each recording period.
Canopy cover and canopy height are recorded in order to be able to describe the forest
profile and to compliment primate and other faunal surveys.
Estimations of the canopy cover and canopy height are recorded every 10 metres of
each 50 metre section, enabling five recordings to be averaged for the section. Canopy
cover is recorded by looking straight up through inverted binoculars, estimating the
percentage of the area blocked by tree canopy foliage and branches, to the nearest 5%.
Measurements of canopy height are taken at the point where the canopy cover is taken.
Canopy height is measured using a clinometer to measure the angle to the top of the
canopy, and by measuring the horizontal distance from the recording point to the
position where the angle is taken. Canopy height is then calculated taking into account
the eye height of the observer.
Fruits and flowers are surveyed in an effort to measure tree species seasonality, and the
distribution of fruits and flowers throughout the survey area. Many forest animals rely on
fruits and flowers as vital food sources; and most significantly for the aims of this project,
they are vital dietary components of the primates found in the Shimoni forest.
Fruits and flowers are identified along the transect lines, recording trees within 10m of
the transect line. Trees in fruit or flower are identified and their DBH recorded in order to
assess age structure. Only woody vegetation with a DBH over 5cm is recorded.
During all observer time in the forest, records are also made of other fauna observed
and identified in the field, noting species with confidence of identification, location,
habitat, group size and other applicable notes. Indirect observations of animals such as
tracks or dung are also recorded as indicators of presence.
3.4 Results
Table 1-9 summarises the data from distance sampling of primate groups. Including all
casual observations and behavioural surveys, a total of 131 groups of C. a. palliatus and
40 groups of C. (n.) m. albogularis were recorded.
The data set for the primate community survey records sighting distances. These are
necessary for distance sampling analysis in order to produce density and hence
population estimates. Figures 2-6 and 2-7 show the distance categories at which
primates were detected.
4
Number of groups
0
0<10 10<20 20<30 30<40 40<50 50<60 60<70 70<80 80<90 90<100
Sighting distance (m)
Figure 2-6. Frequency of perpendicular distances at which C. a. palliatus groups were detected
(n=20).
2
Number of groups
0
0<10 10<20 20<30 30<40 40<50 50<60 60<70 70<80 80<90 90<100
Sighting distance (m)
Resting 53
Feeding 20
Alert 13
Sleeping 6
Staring 4
Grooming passive 2
Travelling 1
Grooming active 1
Self grooming 0.4
Stiff legs display 0.3
Playing social 0.1
Bird point counts were conducted between the hours of 06:30 and 09:30 on all transects.
The time required for access meant that most surveys were restricted to sections within
close proximity to the north/south ‘spine’. A total time of 23hrs 11mins was surveyed
covering 57 transect sections; forming a total survey area of 130,000m 2. 194 birds were
spotted from 34 different species.
Canopy cover was recorded every ten metres across all 219 of the transect sections.
The average canopy cover for one section varied from 0% to 95%, the total average
being 69% (Figure 2-8)
5
Transect number
0
-20 -10 0 10 20 30
Section number
Figure 2-8. Mean canopy cover for transect sections. Circle size represents percent cover, largest
size = 100%.
20
15
Mean canopy height (m)
10
0
-16 -11 -6 -1 4 9 14 19 24 29
Section number
All transect sections were surveyed for fruits and flowers, over a total duration of 27hrs
16mins. 153 trees were recorded in fruit or flower throughout the total survey area of
219,000m2. 11 species were identified, several more are awaiting identification by a local
botanist. Most numerous fruits were represented by Ficus sur, Adansonia digitata, and
Diospyros abyssinica. The most numerous flowers were represented by Hibiscus spp.
A total of 108 trapping days (where one trapping day is counted as one trap baited for a
24 hour period) were completed this expedition. Each transect was sampled with 18
trapping days. Table 1-11 summarises the species found and in what abundances.
A total of 189 hours or 37,978 man hours was spent on casual observations of fauna
during this expedition. 40 species of birds, 9 species of mammals, 17 species of
butterfly, 6 species of reptile, and 1 amphibian species were identified. Five C. a.
palliatus and three C. (n.) m. albogularis skulls were found this expedition, and may in
future be used for crude estimates of death rates.
Species not recorded previously on this project were found; Fischer’s turaco, (Tauraco
fischeri) the forest batis (Batis mixta ultima), the great sparrowhawk (Accipter
melanoleucus), the green wood hoopoe (Phoeniculus purpureus), long crested eagle
(Lophaetus occipitalis), Retz’s helmet shrike (Prionops retzii), tawny eagle (Aquila
rapax), and the small-eared galago (Otolemur garnettii).
Appeasement behaviour was only recorded on two occasions, each time in the same
group. Social grooming was witnessed between a male and female who took turns to
groom one another. It was noted that unlike most small groups of C. a. palliatus groups,
there were two adult males, the physically smaller of which was observed located at the
periphery of the group.
Avian diversity and abundance seems low, however this may be explained by the small
sample size and the visual constraints in dense forest of this kind. The species discovery
curve is so far growing exponentially, and with a greater sample size, will in future be
used in estimates of species diversity. A box size of 50m x 50m x ∞ limits data
recording, yet is essential for estimates of densities in forest habitats. This box size is
chosen by the average maximum visibility in the forest. In some areas, visibility is much
greater but recording numbers without area limitations would make these areas appear
to contain greater densities, and most likely greater diversity as well. Casual
observations can be used to increase the bird species list, and point counts can
therefore be used in estimating densities, and drawing comparisons between micro-
habitats.
Figure 2-8 shows a consistency of canopy across transects 5 & 6. This seems due to
low levels of disturbance in these areas, which are further from the local communities.
Transects 2, 3 & 4 show decreases in percent cover around the north/south spine. In this
area extensive clearing for farmland has occurred.
The canopy height survey shows much lower canopies in those sections west of the
north/south ‘spine’ (figure 2-9). These areas are much closer to local communities and
Aggregations of Ficus sur were found in areas where the ground vegetation layer was
less dense. However, as Ficus sur inflorescences shoot from the tree trunk within 2
metres of the ground, the increased observations may actually be due to improved
visibility in these areas. Adansonia digitata was observed throughout the study area but
in low densities.
Butterfly populations seem healthy in most of the areas surveyed. Lowest numbers
occurred rather interestingly in transect six, the most undisturbed transect. Lehmamm
and Kioko (2005) in a study of three forest patches in Kwale District, also found that
pristine areas do not hold the greatest species diversity. Species diversity may be
difficult to obtain from just one catching method. It also seems likely that the bait type will
only attract certain species. However, recording highly seasonal species such as
Charaxes hansali baringana is benefited by a consistency in bait throughout the year.
Although bird species diversity was somewhat low during bird survey, casual
observations have increased the estimates of diversity quite considerably. This may be
due to the fact that casual observations take place at all times of day, as opposed to bird
point counts which are restricted to the morning hours. Also, with casual observations
there are no parameter limits on sighting distance, and many bird species appear to be
particularly shy of human presence. Numerous sightings of the Zanj elephant shrew
continue to be of particular interest, due to its rare and data-deficient status.
The initiation of the primate behaviour survey has proved successful, and real-time
budgets can readily be quantified using the data obtained. In future the survey would
benefit from identification of consumed plant species, and the gauging of maturity of
leaves eaten.
Bird point counts may benefit from afternoon surveys, hence covering all crepuscular
hours. This should increase the species list and enhance the sample size at greater
rates; so estimates of bird diversity and densities should be obtained more quickly.
Trapping of butterflies should be continued in Shimoni throughout the course of the year
to ensure representative sampling of the different micro-habitats and to assess seasonal
variation in the butterfly community. Anecdotally, it was observed that a large number of
butterfly species present in the forest did not frequent the traps; it seems likely that they
are not attracted to the bait. Complimenting the canopy traps with other methods of
surveying the butterfly community, such as sweep netting should also be considered.
Casual observations continue to reveal greater faunal diversity. Although some of the
large terrestrial mammals have been identified, it is thought many nocturnal species are
yet to be spotted. Next expedition the survey team aims to initiate camera trapping
across the survey area. It is hoped that confirmation of ground pangolin (Smutsia
temminckii), aardvark (Orycteropus afer), various genets and civets (Family: Viverridae),
aardwolf (Proteles cristata), and various mongooses (Family: Herpestidae) may be
recorded in this way.
4.1 Introduction
With regard to the TEFL teaching, the EMs received the 2-day training course on TEFL
on arrival in Mkwiro focusing not only on the adult classes, but also on TEFL for children.
They designed a short 15 minute lesson for the younger students and designed a word
poster so they could teach a nursery rhyme. This training was very successful with
several EMs feeling confident enough to present classes as the lead-teacher. The main
community stakeholder we have been working with this expedition with TEFL is the
Mkwiro Primary School. During this expedition, almost all of GVI’s classes at Mkwiro
Primary School have been arranged in double lessons and have included all the
students from Standard 4 to Standard 8.
The adult classes have included a new format for beginners and advanced men’s as well
as the women’s group. These classes continued to be very popular and have continued
to help build capacity for tourism, enterprise and confidence within the village. Visits to
the Al-Hanan Orphanage, have been three times weekly and we have been involved
with the orphanage throughout the expedition with help and support as needed. Various
community projects have been started or continued during this expedition, and we have
worked alongside the Mkwiro Youth Conservation Group, Village Committee, School
The Year of the Dolphin Committee has been and will continue to be a key community
stakeholder this year. We have been working with them and the other community
groups, especially Mkwiro Primary School, to develop the Year of the Dolphin
programme of events for 2007.
Our Satellite Camp at Kidong, Kasaani and Mahandakini has involved the local Ex-
poacher groups in those areas. These have been key stakeholders in the Satellite Camp
community development projects.
The project expanded this expedition to include participation from four villages; Kidong,
Mahandakini, Kasaani, and Mtakuja. Over 70 different community members attended
workshops or lessons encompassing various topics such as English (Figure 2-12),
Language acquisition, current conservation and environmental issues, monitoring human
wildlife conflict and HIV/AIDS awareness.
Teaching was based in three of the villages, Kidong, Mahandakini, and Kasaani, with
Mtakuja travelling to Kidong. Almost 44 hours were spent teaching in the community,
with a request to visit Mtakuja village in the future.
We have been visiting the orphanage every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for an hour
and a half each day. We have spent more than 36 hours at the orphanage during this
expedition. Activities have included papier-mâché, games, homework, reading help,
sports, drawing and painting (Figure 2-13).
The EMs have spent their Interest Group time helping the Mkwiro Youth Conservation
Group develop the Mwauzi Tumbe Tour. Meetings have been arranged to discuss the
route and what is involved on the tour, the speech and facts and stories they will deliver
and they have started identifying tress and discussing how to label the plants and trees
on the route. Photos have been taken of locally produced clothing with the goal of
developing a brochure in the future. Hammocks have been introduced by GVI to the
Youth Group, and several have already been produced. We hope to help explore and
develop the market for these locally.
GVI staff gave 2 workshops of 4 lectures each on dolphin ecology in Shimoni to local
boat operators who conduct dolphin tours in and around the marine park. This has
greatly increased their capacity to identify, give information on and understand the
dolphins in the area.
4.7 Employment
Marine staff: 1
Boat drivers/security: 3
Base security: 2
The expedition members get a great deal of added enjoyment and understanding of the
local culture and way of life by working closely with these local staff. We are also helping
to build capacity within our local staff by helping them to improve their English and
offering computer lessons and practice when machines are available. GVI also supports
local enterprises in the community including bread and samosa makers, the village tailor
and a curio seller who brings a stall to base. EMs have also paid local ladies to give
them chapatti-making classes (Figure. 2-14), helping to build the capacity of these ladies
to offer the lesson commercially.
GVI has helped to sponsor 5 children to secondary school in full or in part this expedition
through donations to the expedition through GVI CT. During the expedition, £1000 has
been given to the orphanage through the Trust. Part of this money has been used to
fund the salary of the dispensing clinician and the rest has been used on new uniforms
and shoes for the boys, and glasses for an orphan. The Orphanage committee have
given a proposal requesting for the remainder of the money to go towards the water
tank. Our relationship with the orphanage remains strong and all parties are very
appreciative of GVI CT. Some of our EMs used their Interest Group time to investigate
further fundraising for the orphanage, dispensary and other projects in the village.
4.9 Summary
GVI’s involvement in the local community in Mkwiro as well as in Shimoni and Wasini
through English teaching, capacity building and help with the orphanage has made a
tangible difference to the lives of the community members. Combining the community
capacity building and the current scientific research, in this expedition we have started
building an information centre on base. This will house information on all elements of our
project and can be used in the future by the local community as a feature of village tours.
We will continue to develop this in the future. In the next expedition, we hope to develop
the careers information and TEFL education to reach the maximum numbers of people
in Mkwiro. We will also be looking forward to developing more environmental education
in the form of a holiday programme.
Buckland, S.T., Anderson, D.R., Burnham, K.P., Laake, J.L., Borchers, D.L. and
Thomas, L., 2001. Introduction to distance sampling: estimating abundance of biological
populations. Oxford University Press. New York.
Emerton L., Tessema Y., 2001. Economic constraints to the management of marine
protected areas: the case of Kisite Marine National Park and Mpunguti National
Reserve, Kenya. IUCN – The World Conservation Union, Eastern Africa Regional Office,
Nairobi, Kenya.
Fimbel, C., Vedder, A., Dierenfeld, E., Mulindahabi, F. 2001. An ecological basis for
large group size in Colobus angolensis in the Nyungwe Forest, Rwanda. African Journal
of Ecology. 39, 83-92.
Kay, R.N.B., Davies, A.G. Digestive physiology. In: Davies, A.G., Oates, J.F. (Eds.)
1994. Colobine monkeys: their ecology, behaviour, and evolution. Cambridge University
Press. Cambridge.
Kingdon, J. 1997. The Kingdon field guide to African mammals. Academic Press.
London.
Larsen, T.B. 1996. Butterflies of Kenya and their Natural History. Oxford University
Press. New York.
Mann, J., 2000. Unravelling the dynamics of social life: long-term studies and
observational methods, in: Connor, R.C., Tyack, P.L., H. Whitehead. (Eds.), Cetacean
Societies: field studies of dolphins and whales. University of Chicago Press, pp.44-64.
Martin, P., Bateson, P., 1993. Measuring Behaviour: An introductory guide, 3rd edn.
Cambridge University press. Cambridge.
Parsons, K.M., 2001. Procedural guideline No. 4-5 Using photo-ID for assessing
bottlenose dolphin abundance and behaviour, in: Marine JNCC Marine Monitoring
Handbook. 1-21.
Stattersfield, A.J., Crosby, M.J., Long, A.J., Wege, D.C. 1998. Endemic Bird Areas of the
World. Birdlife International, Cambridge, UK.
Thomas, S.C. 1990. Population densities and patterns of habitat use among anthropoid
primates in the Ituri Forest, Zaire. Biotropica. 23, 68-83.
EVENT LOG
DATE: VESSEL: STAFF (Initials): OBSERVERS (Initials): PAGE ______OF______
Environmental Conditions
Time
Event South 04° East 039° Effort Trans Bearing WPT Speed Cloud Swell BFT Vis Tide Precip Wind Comments
(24hrs) # T I D
M/C PAIRS?
WELL MARKED (BEST GUESS): SUBGROUPS:
ACTIVITY (checkmark for primary behaviours, underline secondary behaviours)
REST/MILLING FORAGING (SUSPECTED FEEDING) FEEDING (FISH SEEN) TRAVELLING
SOCIALISING BOWRIDE UNKNOWN
DIRECTION OF TRAVEL: N S E W NE NW SE SW
NOTES
END OF SURVEY TIME:
LAT:
REACTION TO SURVEY VESSEL: AWAY/ TOWARDS/ NONE LONG:
DOLPHIN INFO – SECOND GROUP (Within 100 m radius of first) GROUP SIZE
ST
INCLUDING 1 GROUP ONLY SECOND GROUP TIDE: EBB/ FLOOD MAX:
START TIME: LAT: LONG: MIN:
ID NOTES BEST:
# OF SUBGROUPS:
M/C PAIRS?
WELL MARKED (BEST GUESS):
ACTIVITY
REST/MILLING FORAGING (SUSPECTED FEEDING) FEEDING (FISH SEEN) TRAVELLING
SOCIALISING BOWRIDE UNKNOWN
DIRECTION OF TRAVEL: N S E W NE NW SE SW
NOTES
PHOTOGRAPHS
ROLL NUMBER:
SPACER SHOTS:
I. GROUPING
Definition of a group
We restrict the term group to refer to assemblages of dolphins in which the following requirements are fulfilled: (a) the median inter-
individual distance is <2m (i.e. a “tight” group); (b) the predominant group activity is Rest, Socialise, and or Travel (note: all
assemblages of foraging and feeding are excluded); (c) all individuals are linked by the 10m chain rule); and (d) all, or nearly all, of the
individuals in the group have been identified. Individuals in tight assemblages separated by >5m but in the same ‘group’ by the 10m
chain rule are said to be in different subgroups of the same group. Individuals in tight groups that are not in the same assemblage
according to the 10m chain rule are said to be in different groups.
Note that this definition is designed for studies of dolphin social behaviour and is quite restrictive.
Group Spacing
Very tight vti modal distance between group members is: less than 0.3m
Tight tig 0.3 - 2m
Moderate mod 2 - 5m
Spread spr 5 - 10m
Widespread wsp 10 - 30m
Wide-disperse wdi 30 - 100m
Staggered Abreast sgg Individuals are abreast and staggered between ½ and 1 BLD, any distance
Formation frm The basic Formation is two individuals flanking another on either side and just
behind. Variations between three or more individuals occur and should be
described.
Group Movement
Straight str Individuals in parallel orientation moving in one general direction (i.e. not
varying more than 45 for a period of at least a minute or through at least two
surfacing bouts.
Meander mnd Individuals in parallel orientation repeatedly changing direction (varying more
than 45 within every minute or in sequential surfacing bouts. Speed is
typically slow to very slow. Single individuals engaging in this movement
pattern are said to be milling.
Milling mill Individuals changing orientation with respect to each other on every or nearly
every surfacing. Individuals in a milling assemblage are typically stationary
over an area but assemblages may also progress at any speed.
Dive type
Dive types are discussed in Section II (Feeding & Foraging).
© Global Vision International – 2007 Page 56
Speed
None 0 mph
Very slow vsl <1 mph
Slow slo 1-2 mph
Cruise cru 2-3 mph
Moderate mod 3-4 mph
Fast fas 4-6 mph
Blast bla >6 mph
We refer to foraging as those behaviours which indicate that dolphins are seeking prey. Feeding, on the other hand, refers to the active
pursuit and processing of captured prey. Foraging is by definition a “continuous” behaviour (i.e. a behavioural state) for which we
attempt to record a duration. Thus, we may use the term foraging bout to indicate a discrete period of time in which an individual
dolphins engaged in the activity of foraging. We refer to discrete behaviours (e.g. a tail slap) as a behavioural event). This dichotomy is
useful because typically we can use observations of behavioural events to diagnose the behavioural state (i.e. activity).
Feeding, however, may be continuous or instaneous (note that we still refer to feeding as a behavioural state even in situations where
the duration of the activity is emphemeral). Which category a particular kind of feeding falls into is determined by two factors: (a)
whether the prey are solitary or schooling and (b) whether the prey are large or small.
When feeding on small prey the cycle of puruit-catch-process is essentially instaneous, but some large prey items take considerable
time to process and we can record a feeding duration for those items. Examples include bream, large squid or cuttlefish, snake eels, and
rays. Note that dolphins cannot masticate (i.e. chew) and thus must “process” prey items that are too large to shallow (e.g. by rubbing
on bottom or throwing on surface). Feeding is also considered continuous when dolphins are feeding on small schooling fish, as the
cycle of pursuit-capture-process continues essentially uninterrupted. Examples include bouts of ‘leap-and-porpoise’ feeding on
concentrations of schooling fish such as anchovies or sardines.
Thus: (1) if we can record a feeding duration for large and small schooling fish or a large solitary fish record the activity as Feed; (2) if
we record only occasional instantaneous observations of feeding during a continuous foraging bout, record the activity state as
Forage/Feed; and (3) if there are no indications of active feeding, but there are indications of foraging, simply record the activity as
Forage.
As with anything to do dolphins, there are many shades of grey. The key is to develop a transparent diagnosis for what constitutes the
activity state of Forage that is consistent across different observers abd over time.
A. Foraging
Foraging
Foraging is generally characterized by single dolphins or slightly spread-out assemblages of dolphins (i.e. >2m between dolphins). A
general exception is when one or more dolphins remain close to a foraging dolphin for social reasons (e.g. during herding, mother/calf
pairs). Both the dive type and the inter-individual geometry are important in determining foraging independent of observations of
feeding.
Dive type
Tail out dive td Flukes are raised above the water surface as the dolphin descends at an angle for
a deep dive.
Peduncle dive pd The peduncle is humped up out of the water as the dolphin descends for a deep
dive. Tail flukes are partially submerged.
Geometry
Milling Changing directions with every or nearly every surfacing. In an assemblage of
dolphins, individuals are changing directions with respect to each other.
Lateral Line A frequently occurring type of spread (>5m) movement pattern in which dolphins
are in rank formation (i.e. abreast – ‘on-line’).
Behaviours
Weed prod A dolphin prods into a seagrass/seaweed mass at the surface with its rostrum.
Maybe followed by a fish chase such as snacking.
B Feeding
Humping surface hs A normal surface in which the dolphin ‘humps up’ its posterior half to
break its forward motion as it descends. Often seen when dolphins are
driving or pursuing a fish school in shallow water.
Fast swim fsw A dolphin rapidly accelerates and/or swims fast along or below the
water surface.
Rooster tail rs A fast-swim along the surface in which a sheet of water trails off the
dorsal fin.
Belly-up chase bu A fast-swim belly-up just under the water surface. The fish may often be
seen skipping along the surface just in front of the dolphin.
Snacking snk A slow or moderate swim, belly-up, after a small fish (typically 2” or
less—a ‘snack’).
Bottom-grub bg The dolphin is vertical in the water, prodding into seagrass patches with
its rostrum.
Tail-whack tw A dolphin stops abruptly at or under the surface and wheels, swinging
its flukes sharply. May be indicated by observing fish being knocked
into the air.
Snap snp A sudden jerk of the head and snap of the jaws at or just below the
surface or underwater. The fish is often seen.
Tail-slap ts A dolphin lifts its flukes and sometimes the posterior portion of its body
out of the water and brings the flukes/body down vigorously against the
water (sometimes creating a ‘kerplunk’ sound).
Beach feeding Not likely to observed in Shimoni but a dolphin chases a fish out of the
water onto the beach, momentarily “stranding” itself.
Cluster feed/mill Feeding on a relatively stationary school of small fish (2-4”) in a milling group
but with individuals surfacing side-by-side with one or two others. Record as
cluster mill if fish not seen.
Fish-busting fb Dolphin observed to rub fish against the bottome (=bg+wf over sand
substrate).
Fin jerk fj A sudden twitch of the fin (indicates sudden movement of the head);
again in a foraging context.
On side osd A dolphin lies still on its side at the surface; again in a foraging context.
Foraging types
Note: More than one type may apply—e.g. bird feed may occur with other foraging types.
Foraging (non-specific) Foraging that could not easily be classified as any other type.
Group
Bird feed Dolphins are surfacing within or around actively-feeding seabirds.
Lp & pp feed Dolphins are multi-directional (i.e. milling) and lp/pp continuously within an
area. The area may be relatively small or dispersed over as much as a kilometer
or more. The activity usually occurs in closely spaced bouts with abrupt starts,
stops, and changes of direction. The assemblage as a whole may progress
rapidly.
Foraging aggregation An assemblage of foraging dolphins in which 10 or more dolphins are present.
Individual
Bottom grub Dolphin sticks its beak to the se floor to ferret something out of the sea floor
while in a vertical position. This can only be observed in shallow water.
Td/pd Foraging in which predominant dive type is td/pd. Breath intervals are irregular
with no long intervals between dives. Dolphins typically stay submerged for
more than a minute after a td or pd dive.
Rooster tail The predominant dive type is during foraging is rt. Only occurs in shallow
water.
Tail slap Foraging in which dolphins frequently utilize tail slaps, often with several tail
slaps in succession followed by a fish chase.
Snack party Belly-up chase and capture of fish trapped against the water surface.
III. MISCELLANEOUS
Some behaviours do not fit obviously into either social or feeding/foraging categories. In some cases behaviours may occur in a wide
variety of contexts including feeding, socializing, or resting (e.g. snagging) and in some cases they can be clearly excluded from either
(e.g. stretching).
Snagging sng A dolphin floating at the surface, still or slowly moving, is said to be
snagging. When still the dolphin’s flukes will drop to the degree that
only the anterior edge of the dorsal fin may show at the surface and
the rostrum may be exposed to the top of the mandible. Snagging may
last from a few seconds to several minutes. Occurs in a wide variety
of contexts:
(a) resting: when dolphins are in a tight group, moving slowly with
regular, peduncle, or tail-out dives and with no evidence of foraging
or socialisng
(b) socialising: snagging may occur in several social contexts;
dolphins may snag prior to joining other dolphins or while waiting for
group members to “catch up” (e.g. when one member has strayed off
to catch a fish)
Stretching sth Occurs frequently during snags. The dolphin flexes its body one or
several times in succession. A typical sequence is to depress the neck
region while flexing the head up, then to flex the neck region up while
pointing the rostrum down. Stretching may include side-to-side
flexing as well.
Weed rub wrb A dolphin approaches a patch of seaweed/seagrass and rubs it while
rolling side or belly-up. The dolphin’s pectorals and flukes are often
lifted out of the water, draped with weed. May be difficult to
distinguish from weed-prodding.
IV SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
We consider five categories of social behaviours: 1) affiliative; 2) aggressive; 3) sexual and 4) non-contact dispays; and 5)
miscellaneous for behaviours that do not fit easily into the first four categories. Bottlenose dolphins are remarkable for the variety of
synchronous behaviours they perform. Each category includes a sub-section of synchronous behaviours.
A. Affiliative Behaviours
Observation quality:
1. Observation based on direct observation of pec-body contact:
Note whether pec is: 1) actively moving; 2) knee-jerking; or 3) stiff
Note part of body being contacted: (common parts include: blowhole, dorsal
surface between blowhole and dorsal fin dorsal ridge between dorsal fin and
flukes; dorsal or ventral aspect of flukes; side below dorsal fin; side
peduncle; eye region; “chin” chest (between pecs); genital area).
Note whether receiving pec contact is actively moving against pec: 1) roll; 2)
pitch; 3) yaw
2. Observation based on surface observation of underwater roll of one dolphin at
distance 0 from another dolphin
Rubbing rub Gentle to more vigorous body-to-body contact. Individuals are often seen rubbing against
each other vigorously in play groups.
Observation quality:
Note whether the observation is based on: (a) surface position (sbs staggered by .3-.5m at
distance 0) or (b) direct observation of the pec resting against the side of the other dolphin.
Non-Contact Behaviours
Synch surfs ss Two or more dolphins surface synchronously—they both break the surface and dive
in synchrony. If the dolphins are side-by-side but staggered note the relative
location as ½ body-length difference (1/2 bld) or 1 bld. Note distance between
© Global Vision International – 2007 Page 61
dolphins as: 0 = <.3m; 1 = .3-2m; 2 = 2-5m; and 3 = 5-10m.
Synch up ss-up Two or more dolphins break the surface synchronously but do not dive
synchronously. A common example is when one dolphin remains snagging at the
surface. Distance and location are as for SS.
Synch down ss-dn Two or more dolphins break the surface asynchronously but dive synchronously.
Distance and location are as for SS.
Almost ss-al Two dolphins surface side-by-side but are not quite synchronous during any part of
synch surfs the surfacing cycle.
Touring trg When a dependent calf repeatedly approaches (to within 2m) and leaves from an
adult or adolescent animal, or the baby remains remains at <2m from this animal
while remaining >5m from the mother. The bay does not tour on its own (then it’s
traveling). Touring is a state, and must occur for the majority of a surfacing bout
(when surfacing bouts are discrete) to be called. If there are non-discrete surfacing
bouts, then touring should be called if it occurs for the predominant interval you are
using for measurement (i.e. 5-minute intervals).
B. Aggressive Behaviours
Individual-to-individual
Head-to- hth One or more individuals line up with one or more individuals.
head
Tiff tf A head-to-head in which at least one individual is bobbing its head up and down.
Accompanied by Donald Duck vocalisations.
Head jerk hj A sharp lateral or vertical jerk of the rostrum. Often accompanied by a sharp bang
sound.
Chase chs Two individuals fast swimming, one behind the other. The individual in the aft
position is the chaser.
Circle cch Two dolphins ‘chase each other’s tail’ in a tight circle.
chase
Charge chg A dolphin rapidly accelerates and swims fast directly at another dolphin
approaching to within two meters or less.
Tail hit tht A dolphin strikes another violently with its flukes/peduncle.
Fin hit fht A dolphin swims rapidly past another so that its fin hits the other dolphin.
Pec hit pht A dolphin ‘karate-chops’ another dolphin with its pectoral fin.
Rostrum hit rht A dolphin strikes another dolphin with a sharp lateral strike of its rostrum.
Essentially a HJ with contact.
Bite bte A dolphin bites another with a rapid motion of the head and jaws.
Body slam bsl A charging dolphin slams into another with any part of its body other than its
rostrum, peduncle and tail, fins and pectoral fins.
Fight fgt An intense interaction between two dolphins involving multiple aggressive attacks
by both participants.
Group-to-Individual
Head-to-head: X on 1 hth-2, -3, etc. Two or more dolphins line up head-to-head against another
dolphin, e.g. hth-4 indicates a four-on-one interaction.
Group attack: X on 1 atk-2, -3, etc. Two or more dolphins attack a single individual. The single
dolphin may or mat not fight back.
Synchronous Behaviours
Synch head jerk shj Two dolphins, side-by-side, perform synchronous head jerks.
Synch jaw clap sjc Two dolphins, side-by-side, perform synchronous jaw claps.
Synch charge scg Two dolphins, side-by-side, charge another synchronously. May veer off
synchronously in opposite directions.
Synch chase sch Two dolphins, side-by-side, blast after another dolphin or group of dolphins.
The pursuing dolphins porpoise or leap synchronously abreast.
C. Submissive Behaviours
On-side osd In connection with being approached or (more clearly) receiving aggression
from one or more dolphins, a dolphin lies on its side at the surface.
D. Sexually-Oriented Behaviours
Sexual behaviours are given a separate category because some behaviours may be performed in both aggressive and affiliative contexts.
As well as judging the intensity of the behaviour, the observer should look for other behaviours (e.g. biting, petting) which would
indicate that the interaction is an affiliative or aggressive interaction.
Individual-to-individual
Erection erc Obvious.
Mount mnt One dolphin approaches another from the side and slides ventrum over the
dorsum of the other animal at a 5-30 angle with respect to the anterior-
posterior axis of the other dolphin. An erection may be seen if the mounting
individual is male. Males have been observed to mount males as well as
females and females have been observed to mount males and females. Two
dolphins may mount another synchronously or iteratively from either side.
Inverted mount ivm A common variation of mounting. The individual being approached rolls
belly up at or below the surface, then the approaching dolphin rolls over and
mounts ‘upside down.’ The penis is more readily visible in inverted mounts.
Side-press sdp A dolphin approaches another as though to mount but instead of angling up
over the back of the other it presses against its side in parallel orientation.
May be simply another variation of mounting. Often occurs with two
dolphins ‘sandwiching’ a third between them.
Double roll-out dbr Two individuals approach another from either sides though to mount but as
they come up along either side they splay up and out rather than up and over,
sliding their ventral area against the side of the other’s peduncle. Only seen as
a dyadic behaviour.
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Goose goo A dolphin moves its rostrum into the genital area of another dolphin. May be
performed slowly and gently in affiliative interactions and violently in
aggressive interactions. The goosed dolphin often avoids by rolling belly up
and tail-slapping at the goosing dolphin. A tail-slap, rub, or belly-present may
also precede a goose in affiliative interactions.
Push-up psh One or more dolphins push up under another dolphin’s mid-section forcing it
out of the water. The dolphin being pushed is typically on its side or belly-up.
Pec-mount pm One dolphin approaches another and inserts the other dolphin’s pec-fin intoits
genital slit.
Group-to-individual
Group-on-one-sex gps An encounter in which two or more dolphins perform multiple sexual acts on a
single individual.
Herding hrd An aggressively-maintaind association. Two or more dolphins use vocal (pops,
screams) and physical (head jerks, charges) threats to force another dolphin to
accompany them. Herding dolphins engage in normal daily activities such as
foraging while herding another dolphin as well as in social and sexual
behaviours directed at the herded dolphin. Typically seen as an aggressively-
maintained consortship between coalitions of males and a female.
Synchronous Behaviours
Synch mount smt Two dolphins approach another from either side and synchronously mount it.
Synch goose sgs Two dolphins approach another side-by-side from either side or from behind
and synchronously goose it.
Synch side-press ssp Two dolphins approach another from behind, swim up on either side, and
synchronously perform side press or ‘sandwich’ the dolphin in the centre.
Double roll-out dbr Two dolphins approach another from either side as though to mount but as they
come up along either side they splay up and out rather than up and over, sliding
their ventral area against the side of the other’s peduncle. Only seen as a dyadic
behaviour.
E. Displays
Dolphins, particularly males, perform a wide variety of displays. Many displays by males are often performed in synchrony with
another male or males and these can be quite spectacular. Displays are divided into two categories, those that can only be observed as
synchronous displays (by definition) and those which can be performed by a single individual.
Individual or Synchronous
Tail-slap ts A dolphin raises its tail flukes out of the water and slaps them against the water
surface.
Chin-slap cns A dolphin raises its head out of the water and slaps its rostrum against the water
surface. Maybe light or hard.
Belly-slap bls A dolphin raises itself out of the water to at least its dorsal fin and then slaps its
belly on the water surface. Maybe light or hard.
Belly-breach blb A dolphin leap clear of the water and lands on its belly.
Leap lp A dolphin leaps clear of the water, remains orientated normally in the air and re-
enters head first. Note: this class is the most common form of leap and occurs in
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many non-social contexts such as very fast Travel (i.e. blasting) and leap feeding.
Face-slap fcs A dolphin, on its side, raises its head out of the water and slaps the side of its head
on the water surface. May be light or hard.
Side-slap sds A dolphin, on its side, raises itself out of the water at least to its dorsal fin and then
slaps its side on the water surface. May be light or hard.
Side-breach sdb A dolphin leaps clear of the water and lands on its side.
Side-leap sdl A dolphin leaps clear of the water side-up, or turns on its side in the air, and re-
enters the water head-first.
Head-slap hds A dolphin, belly-up, raises its head out of the water and slaps it on the water
surface. May be light or hard.
Back-slap bks A dolphin, belly-up, raises itself out of the water at least to its dorsal fin and then
slaps its back against the water surface. May be light or hard.
Back-breach bkb A dolphins leaps clear of the water, belly-up, and lands on its back.
Back-leap bkl A dolphin leaps clear of the water, belly-up, and re-enters the water head-first.
Vertical rise vtr A dolphin rises partially up out of the water while in the vertical position. Dolphins
have been observed rising out past the pectoral fins or son only the rostrum breaks
the surface.
Tail-walk tlw A vtr in which the dolphin rises up to at least halfway down its peduncle and holds
the position with vigorous fluke-thrusting.
Belly-present bep A dolphin rolls on its side belly toward another dolphin at distance 0-1 as it swims
past in front of or alongside the other dolphin.
Tilt-belly-in tlb A dolphin tilts its belly toward another dolphin while positioned beside and just
behind the other dolphin. Often performed by two dolphins in formation behind
another.
Tilt-head-in tlh A dolphin, from tilt-in position, angles its head into the vicinity of the other
dolphin’s genital slit.
Head-circle hcl In horizontal position, a dolphin rotates its head in circles (only seen once as a
synchronous display by two dolphins).
Rooster-strut rst A dolphin pushes its chest down and arches its head up and out of the water, then
moves forward, often with a slight bobbing motion of its head. The bobbing motion
is typically not as pronounced as in a rst. May be accompanied by tail slaps.
Side-sway ssd Like the rooster strut except that the dolphin sways its head from side to side
display instead of up and down.
Tail-flailing tfl Very rapid, short strokes of the flukes in any orientation. Often used in intense,
singleton displays.
Arching acd The most intense single display. Often growing out of the rooster strut, the dolphin
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display arches its head up higher and higher, often until it is arching out to the dorsal fin,
while whirling around, often rolling over on its side or back; often with an open
mouth. Often accompanied by tail-flailing and sometimes tail-slaps.
Frame # Notes
Date South 04 East 039 Wpt # General Location Closest Habitat Notes
NOTES
Photo Notes:
Date South 04 East 039 Wpt # General Location Closest Habitat Notes
NOTES
Photo Notes:
Time sighted Common name Scientific name No. individuals Notes / description (if unsure I.D.)