The contribution of stranding data to monitoring and conservation strategies for cetaceans: Developing spatially explicit mortality indicators for common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) in the eastern North-Atlantic

摘要: a b s t r c Cetacean strandings are an important source of information on cetacean population status and bio- logical samples. Nevertheless, collecting stranding data remains opportunistic their representativity must be improved. The aim this study was to improve the ecological significance strandings, through determination stranded common dolphin origin found along coasts Channel Bay Biscay, by using drift prediction model MOTHY. In order map inferred distribution dead dol- phins, were weighted probability that cetaceans dying at sea become stranded. difference between observed expected under hypoth- esis spatial temporal uniformity cetaceans, constituted anomaly in origin. Between 1990 2009, 6182 reported UK French strand- ing networks. Distribution from suggested dolphins died mostly neritic Biscay. maximal southern highlighted as area high relative abundance or strong mortality for dolphin. monthly decomposition showed positive located Biscay winter expanded northward over whole western spring sum- mer. These results consistent with current knowledge provide new insight indicators. parameters essential components assessing conservation vulnerable populations.