Marine predators like blue whales must find prey that is unevenly spread across the ocean, which makes feeding challenging. Scientists know animals make movement choices at different scales, but it is unclear how these choices affect how well they feed. This study combined satellite data with detailed tracking data from blue whales to see how small-scale ocean features affect where and how whales feed. The researchers found that blue whales consistently fed more in dynamic, small-scale ocean features that concentrate prey, across different places, seasons, and years. Whales fed more often in areas where these features were strongest, showing that these spots are important feeding areas that should be considered when protecting whale habitat.
Authors: James A. Fahlbusch, Max F. Czapanskiy, John Calambokidis, David E. Cade, Briana Abrahms, Elliott L. Hazen, Jeremy A. Goldbogen
Journal: Proceedings of the Royal Society Biological Sciences
DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2022.1180
Photo credit: royalty free
