An assessment of wounds caused by the attachment of remote sensing tags to North Atlantic right whales (Eubalaena glacialis): 1988 - 1997

Abstract

Because of the increase in usage of remote sensing tags to track the migration and movements of cetaceans, it has become increasingly important to assess the impact of such techniques on the target species. Between 1988 and 1997, 55 tags (41 satellite telemetry, 14 VHF or acoustic radio transmitter) were attached to 49 North Atlantic right whales (Eubalaena glacialis). All tags had implantable barbs or were fully implanted below the dermis. Right whales are photographically identifiable and the New England Aquarium curates the North Atlantic catalog, which currently numbers 374 individuals. The photo catalog has made it possible for tagged individuals to be tracked after the tag falls off the whale. Photo documentation during and after tagging provides an opportunity to monitor physiological effects from tags and healing responses to tags.