Endangered And Rare Cetacean Species Surveys Completed In Fiji
Thursday, September 30. 2010
It’s been a very busy but rewarding few months as I’m almost at the end of the 1st year for a new cetacean research project here in Fiji. The major aim of this project was to document the different species of whales and dolphins present in waters proximal to our two land-based study sites. However, particular focus was given to the Endangered Oceania humpback whale due to historical records for the area as well as the timing of our surveys with their peak migration. In addition to these land-based surveys, time was spent on the water collecting dorsal fin and fluke images, and recording song. There was also a strong emphasis on building national capacity, engaging volunteers, and raising awareness.
Volunteers on the hill
More than 250 hours were spent conducting land-based observations with over 60 volunteers engaged in this work. One of the highlights of the survey was the documentation of more than 80 Endangered humpback whales, including numerous mother-and-calf pairs. These numbers represent an increase on previous reports. The team was also pleased to record the first sighting of a pygmy sperm whale in Fijian waters. In addition, minke whales, short-finned pilot whales, resident spinner dolphins, and sperm whales were also observed by the survey team.
Fiji Islands Voyaging Society crew members getting a close look at a humpback whale aboard the Uto ni Yalo
WDCS International is partnering with the Fiji Government Fisheries Department, WWF and the University of the South Pacific for this 3-year project. Funding for the project is coming primarily from the Australian Government’s Indian Ocean and Pacific Islands Cetacean Conservation and Research Fund. Partnership and additional support for this year’s project came from FIVS, Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Program, and Flinders University. In all, it was a very successful project. Once I catch up on sleep … I’m sure that I’m probably looking forward to next year!
Heading home on the Uto ni Yalo
Conditions were relatively calm and there was much excitement as the group made the 8 hour crossing to Levuka. Excitement increased as a minke whale was encountered along the trip. 
The Levuka researchers have also managed to collect some humpback whale song recordings aboard the Uto ni Yalo. These early survey results demonstrate a great start to the project. We anticipate more valuable results ... and are hoping that the weather will continue to be excellent for whale and dolphin sightings.
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But kudos to the people who did their best to save him.