Science Advisory Report 2020/055
Abundance Estimate of the Northern Hudson Bay Narwhal Population from the 2018 Aerial Survey
Summary
- Visual aerial surveys conducted from 3–14 August 2018 provided an updated estimate of abundance for the Northern Hudson Bay (NHB) narwhal population. Adjusting the near-surface estimate for submerged whales and whales missed by observers, produced an estimated abundance of 19,200 (95% CI = 11,300–32,900) narwhal.
- The previous aerial survey of NHB narwhal occurred in 2011 and resulted in an adjusted estimate of 12,500 (95% CI = 7,500–20,700) narwhal.
- The 2018 survey replicated the 2011 survey design, with increased coverage in Wager Bay, as recommended by the Arviq Hunters and Trappers Organization in Naujaat.
- The 2018 abundance estimate adds to a time series of survey-based estimates that may allow us to estimate population abundance and provide management advice using a model-based approach.
This Science Advisory Report is from the February 17–22, 2020 meeting on Northern Hudson Bay Narwhal – Abundance Estimate and Sustainable Harvest Advice. Additional publications from this meeting will be posted on the Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) Science Advisory Schedule as they become available.
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