Biscayne Bay Florida Bottlenose Dolphin Studies

These data sets include a compilation of small vessel based studies of bottlenose dolphins that reside within Biscayne Bay, Florida, adjacent estuaries and nearshore coastal waters. The data consist primarily of photo-identification studies that use natural markings on animal dorsal fins to identify individuals over time. Surveys consist of line transects aboard small boats with concentrated effort to collect photographs of individuals. These photographs are reviewed to identify and catalog individual animals. In addition, several targeted studies have been conducted within this program to collect tissue biopsy samples for genetic and contaminant analyses. These data are used to examine demographic structure and population dynamics of the Bisayne Bay Estuarine System stock of bottlenose dolphins.

To determine residency patterns and population dynamics of bottlenose dolphins occupying Biscayne Bay, Florida.

Photo-identification studies have followed a variety of survey designs. During 1990-2008, surveys were conducted intermittently on a monthly basis. Since 2008, more intensive surveys have been conducted along standardized tracklines seasonally, most typically during the spring and fall.