Research Document 2018/031

Information in Support of the Identification of Habitat of Special Importance to Fin Whales (Balaenoptera physalus) in Canadian Pacific Waters

By Nichol, L.M. and Ford, J.K.B.

Abstract

The Fin Whale is the second largest whale species in the world and occurs in Canadian Pacific waters.  Fin Whales in the Pacific were listed as Threatened under Canada’s Species at Risk Act (SARA) in 2006.  As required by the SARA, research has focussed on studies to support identification of critical habitat for the species.  In this report, we draw on recent research to describe distribution, abundance and behaviour of Fin Whales to provide information about important habitat to assist the identification of critical habitat. Following synthesis of the research findings one region was identified that meets the criteria for important habitat to support survival and recovery of Fin Whales under the SARA.  The region includes most of the waters of Hecate Strait and Queen Charlotte Sound, and Greater Caamaño Sound.  Ship-based surveys, acoustic monitoring, photo-identification studies and satellite tagging studies in the region demonstrate that Fin Whales are present year-round, and that they forage extensively throughout the area. Male mating calls in fall and winter months, and the presence of calves accompanying females observed during surveys, indicate Fin Whales carry out most if not all life processes in the area. The biophysical functions, features and attributes of this habitat of special importance are described, and examples of activities likely to result in the destruction of these components of the habitat are summarized. The identified habitat, however, represents only part of the total habitat of special importance for this species.  Fin Whales also occur elsewhere in Canadian Pacific waters but most research effort to date has occurred in the inshore region. The relationship between Fin Whales in the inshore region and the offshore region is not clear. Photo-identification results, as well as acoustic studies, suggest that animals occupying Hecate Strait, Queen Charlotte Sound, Greater Caamaño Sound do not move readily between this region and the offshore of Vancouver Island and Haida Gwaii. Continued research will be needed to fully identify all habitats of special importance that are necessary for the survival and recovery of the species throughout Canadian Pacific waters.

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