Tourism informing conservation: The distribution of four dolphin species varies with calf presence and increases their vulnerability to vessel traffic in the four-island region of Maui, Hawai'i

We need reliable information about the spatial and temporal distribution of mobile species to effectively manage anthropogenic impacts to which they are exposed. Yet, we often cannot sustain dedicated annual surveys and data obtained from platforms of opportunity offer an alternative avenue to understand where these species spend time. Four odontocete species that occur in the four-island region of Maui, Hawai'i, USA, are vulnerable to a range of human activities, but there is a lack of information regarding their distribution. We therefore do not know the extent of the risk these activities present for the conservation of these species (bottlenose dolphins, spinner dolphins, Pantropical spotted dolphins and false killer whales). We used a cross-validated maximum entropy (MaxEnt) occupancy model to estimate the distribution of these four species in an area extensively observed from platforms of opportunity (PoP). We then determined in a similar fashion whether the calves of those species were more likely to be observed in particular areas and whether distribution changed with season. Maxent models relying on local environmental variables described dolphin observations well (AUC > 0.7). Their distribution differed for all species when calves were present, indicating that different environmental variables describe area use for schools with calves present. The number of sighting events of all species varied significantly with season. Bottlenose dolphins and false killer whales were more prevalent in winter, while spotted and spinner dolphins were more prevalent in summer. We show that an overlap in the distribution of dolphin schools with calves and vessel traffic in the region could result in collision and chronic stress risks. This suggests a need for specific regulations for mitigating anthropogenic influences, such as acoustic disturbance or chronic energetic disturbance from vessel traffic. This elevated risk associated with vessel traffic is likely of conservation concern in this region for the endangered population of false killer whales and for spinner dolphins.

Automated summary

Reliable information on the spatial and temporal distribution of mobile species is essential for effective conservation management in the face of human impacts. Utilizing a maximum entropy model, this study found differences in distribution patterns for odontocete species in Maui, Hawai'i, particularly when calves were present or in different seasons. The overlap between dolphin schools with calves and vessel traffic in the region poses a risk for collision and chronic stress, indicating a need for specific regulations to mitigate anthropogenic influences and conserve endangered populations.