Task 4d

Investigating inter-click interval patterns for deep divers

Investigating inter-click interval (ICI) patterns will feed directly into considerations of factors driving cue rates such as time of day, season, geographic location, population or behavioral state. Odontocete studies have shown a modal distribution of inter-click intervals (ICIs), which also appear to be species-specific. While there generally is a preferred signalling rate, this may vary dependent on several factors. We propose to investigate a comprehensive dataset for Cuvier’s and Blainville’s beaked whales as well as sperm whales with which analysis of ICI variability across time and space will be possible. Long-term datasets collected over multiple years will provide temporal, whereas data from multiple sites within a smaller geographic region will document variability across sites. The potential for comparing these data with DTAGs collected in similar places and times will be considered.

Team members

• Jenny Trickey
• Simone Bauman-Pickering

Progress

Watch this space for task updates.