Silva, I.M., Jesus, N., Castro, J., Luís, A.R. (2024). The Effects of Vessel Traffic on the Behavior Patterns of Common Dolphins in the Tagus Estuary (Portugal). Animals, 14, 2998. (2024).
https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14202998
This is the third paper with the AIMM name, to get published this year!
This research highlights the effects of vessel traffic on the behavior of common dolphins in the Tagus estuary, Portugal, a densely populated area with heavy commercial and recreational vessel traffic throughout the year. During one year of land-based observations, dolphin sightings were recorded and analyzed. Although common dolphins often displayed neutral reactions to nearby vessels, behavior disruptions were observed, and individuals were more likely to start traveling when vessels were present. This study underlines the potential impact of boat traffic on dolphin behavior, particularly as dolphin sightings and tourism in the area are on the rise. These insights are important to understand potential impact sources.