An Index of the Relative Abundance of Wintering Belugas, Delphinapterus leucas, and Narwhals, Monodon monoceros, off West Greenland

摘要: Systematic aerial surveys of the wintering grounds belugas, Delphinapterus leucas, and narwhals, Monodon monoceros, in southern Baffin Bay northern Davis Strait were conducted late winter 1981, 1982, 1990, 1991. Most belugas found between 67°N 69°N none seen more than 80 km off coast West Greenland. Compared with 1981 a decline relative abundance along Greenland was evident This significant at probability level 0.13 bootstrapped distribution combined estimate. Pod sizes declined significantly 1981–82 1990–91 surveys. The variations ice conditions years did not seem to affect distribution, clumping, or pod belugas. Narwhals widely distributed close pack offshore 65°N 72°N. Along coast, narwhals primarily mouth Disko Bay. No change size...