Abundance and distribution of the Atlantic humpback dolphin (Sousa teuszii) in Gabon and Congo, with a focus on improving field-survey methods and monitoring protocols

Principal Investigators: Collins, Strindberg, Rosenbaum

The proposed project will greatly advance the status assessment of Atlantic humpback dolphins not only through the direct collection, analysis and communication of data for two range states, but also through the development of a methodology tailored to the West African context that can be applied elsewhere in the species range. The project will also provide an opportunity to strengthen the rationale behind the creation of the Mayumba-Conkouati transboundary park. Principal objectives are given below.

(1)     to estimate abundance, using a small suite of methods, for humpback dolphins in the waters of Gabon and Congo.

(2)     to assess, using a modelling approach, the distribution and habitat preferences of humpback dolphins in Gabon and Congo, including identification of critical habitat and migratory corridors.

(3)     to assess which methods provide a robust and cost effective means of estimating humpback dolphin abundance, with due consideration of biases given (anticipated) small sample sizes and corresponding model fit.

(4)     to assess threats in Gabon and Congo and map their distribution.

(5)     to provide an opportunity for regional collaborators to participate in the work, as well as report and publication development.