PRESENCE & DISTRIBUTION OF BOTTLENOSE DOLPHINS

By knowing more about the presence and distribution of bottlenose dolphins it enables us to make more informed and wiser decisions about the conservation and management of this species.

A science-based response to the conservation problems created by interactions between human activities and bottlenose dolphins depends critically on accurate knowledge of the impacts caused by the interactions. Because of the high degree of behavioural and social flexibility that bottlenose dolphins have demonstrated throughout their range, it is essential to understand factors effecting local dolphins if their populations are to be managed and conserved. Information on habitat use also seems applicable to coastal management plans.

We suggest that the main management issues of our projects relate to the dolphin's habitats. The feeding opportunities for dolphins that are created by human activities have become part of their culture, part of their habitat requirements, although studied dolphins are capable of foraging on other food sources.

Pressures of commercialism and larger scale tourism activities are now increasing along the north eastern coast of Sardinia. The information gathered on the population of dolphins will be of vital importance to study any subsequent changes in their distribution and behaviour due to increasing human pressures. Moreover, the involvement of local people, fishers included, in the conservation of the marine environment is necessary. Although perceived conflict of interactions between dolphins and coastal, small scale commercial fisheries has been reported in our study area, cooperation between local fishers and researchers is necessary in order to realize both monitoring and subsequent regulations.