Friends of Cardigan Bay: Sarns Survey By Philip Hughes and Ruth Pownall.

Transcription

1 Friends of Cardigan Bay: Sarns Survey 2005 By Philip Hughes and uth Pownall.

2 The Three Sarnau of Cardigan Bay Not to be used for navigation eproduced from Admiralty chart 1972 Cardigan Bay Central part, by permission of Her Majesty s Stationery ffice and the UK Hydrological ffice ( i

3 Photograph Janet Baxter Sarn Cynfelyn at Wallog ii

4 Acknowledgments Friends of Cardigan Bay would like to thank CCW for their continued support and generosity in part funding this survey. Thanks are also extended to members of Cantre r Gwaleod divers and individual Seasearch divers for their enthusiasm, expertise and time which was so freely given during the season s exploration. Special thanks to Dr Joanna Porter, UWA, for her underwater photography and assistance in overseeing these diving operations. Thanks also to Kate Lock, CCW, for acting as our regional Seasearch coordinator. A final note of thanks to all the volunteers of Friends of Cardigan Bay who willingly gave their time and assistance for this survey. iii

5 Abstract The 2005 Sarns surveys took place between the months of June and ctober. The equivalent of 6 full days of survey was undertaken supported by a series of Seasearch benthic biological investigations on Sarn Cynfelyn near Aberystwyth. An attempt to evaluate potential prey species for the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) was made utilising photographic methods and seabed ecological evaluation by physical diver survey. A total of eighteen bottlenose dolphins were recorded on Sarn Cynfelyn as well as two harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) and one Atlantic grey seal (Halichoerus grypus). Photographic records of prey species were obtained at the surface, along with detailed benthic survey of seabed characteristics in areas where foraging activity had been recorded for these animals. Early observations and conclusions reached indicated that the Sarn itself supports a rich and diverse variety of species and also provide an important nursery area for juvenile teleosts, whilst fine sand habitat immediately to the north of the Sarn seems to be extremely rich in bivalve molluscs. It would appear from this and sightings data that Sarn Cynfelyn could be an extremely important foraging area for cetaceans and possibly marine mammals in general. It was a recommendation of this report that investigations should continue into 2006 and beyond to contribute to a better understanding of marine mammals and, in turn, help to confer further protection to these unique and perhaps sensitive areas. iv

6 Introduction The Friends of Cardigan Bay (FoCB) Sarns Survey Project for 2005 was a continuation and expansion of the previous year s Sarns Pilot Surveys. It was funded by Friends of Cardigan Bay (FoCB) and The Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) under the Species Challenge Initiative. The Sarnau of Cardigan Bay are believed to be glacial moraines (Foster, 1970) and are recognised features of the Pen Llyn a r Sarnau Special Area of Conservation (SAC). The geological construction of the Sarnau is a mix of cobbles and boulders which form linear reefs extending westwards out into the bay, each for several kilometres. The primary purpose of the 2004 surveys were to establish whether there was any evidence that certain cetacea, particularly bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) and harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena), were utilising these natural reefs as a resource for foraging and feeding. Ten days of survey were completed in 2004, mainly looking at Sarn Cynfelyn near Aberystwyth, but also Sarn-y-Bwlch at Tywyn. This work suggested that one particular location upon Sarn Cynfelyn was of interest to bottlenose dolphin, a possible hotspot for foraging activity and feeding (Hughes, 2004). The FoCB aim of the Sarns Survey 2005 was to focus in a little more detail on Sarn Cynfelyn to further evaluate the area for cetacean activity. In addition it was hoped that a photographic log of feeding animals would be possible in order to identify prey species taken. All surface environmental data would be logged, along with tidal information. The previous year s survey had indicated that sighting times for the bottlenose dolphin may be linked with times of high water when foraging was evident. It was also the intention to investigate the benthos of Sarn Cynfelyn by means of diver survey, more specifically locations where sightings of these animals had been made whilst foraging or feeding. It may then be possible to correlate the associated foraging behaviour of these animals with the benthic information recorded and a photographic record. In this way it was hoped that a simple picture of preferred prey species for these animals could be built at given locations upon the Sarn. The benthic information was gathered using accredited Seasearch methodologies and would also increase our very limited biological knowledge of this area. This was deemed important for the future management of the SAC and the variety of wildlife that frequent the area. Atlantic grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) sightings would also be recorded, along with any encounters of marine turtles.

7 Survey Methodology Surveys were undertaken utilising the group s vessel Evening Star, a 24 foot fishing boat, combining pre-determined line transects and multiple spot sampling techniques. Surveys were not carried out in anything above a seastate 2. Any sea-state higher was deemed unsuitable for the purposes of this survey as signs of cetacean activity such as fins, water splashes etc.(particularly of harbour porpoise) are difficult to spot in higher seas. Line Transects: A parallel line transect was used (fig. 1) where the vessel was motored up one transect line and down the other. This had previously been found to be the most suitable transect survey for the Sarns due to their linear formation (Hughes, 2004). It allows the vessel to pass in closer to the reef crowns where possible upwellings are likely to occur. Whilst performing a transect a steady speed of 5-6 knots was adhered to. Multiple Spot Sampling: There is a large amount of antidotal evidence and previous studies have shown (Hughes, 2004) that there are certain hotspots on the Sarn for dolphin activity. These areas where more frequently sampled using spot sampling. Whilst at sea two trained observers were on watch at all times. An environmental log was kept by other crew members. This log was completed every 15 minutes and the following data were collected: Time, bservers, Latitude and Longitude, Course over ground (vessels heading), Speed over ground, Depth (metres from sea bed), Water temperature (sea surface), Sea state (Beaufort), Swell height, Wind force (Beaufort), Wind direction, Cloud cover, Glare, Visibility, Precipitation, Craft present. When cetaceans were encountered a second sightings sheet was filled in and the following data recorded: Date, Time (Start of encounter), Time (End of encounter), Species, Total number of individuals, Number of adults, Number of juveniles, Number of calves, Bearing, Distance, Initial direction of travel, Lat/Long (Start of encounter), Lat/Long (End of encounter), Associated wildlife, Behaviour, eaction to craft, Tidal information. All sightings while traveling to and from the Sarn were recorded along with separate details of encounters with associated wildlife such as seals and seabirds. Benthic surveys: These were also carried out, utilising standard Seasearch methodologies, by amateur diving clubs (photo. 1). All divers involved in these surveys were Seasearch trained. Guidelines for diving safety were adhered to as specified by CCW and the divers training agency. Full written risk assessments were mandatory on every dive undertaken by the Dive fficer and a full dive log was completed and filed with the Dive Group and the boat s Skipper for inspection.

8 Fig. 1: Transect design for Sarn Cynfelyn Not to be used for navigation eproduced from Admiralty chart 1972 Cardigan Bay central part, by permission of the controller of Her Majesty s Stationery ffice and the Hydrographical ffice. ( Photo. 1: Diver utilising Seasearch methodologies

9 esults The equivalent of 6 full days of survey was completed between the months of June and ctober. This equates to over 300 hours of on effort survey time. This was supplemented and supported by a series of Seasearch dives to determine the benthic habitat at several identified points of interest that correspond directly with incidences of foraging and feeding of the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) and harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena). Table 1: Showing sightings and tidal information on Sarn Cynfelyn 2005 Species Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) Total Number Adults Juveniles Date and time of encounter 22 nd June 20.05hrs 12 th July & 12.50hrs Location Tidal Information (High Water, Aberystwyth) HW 21.03hrs 5.0m springs HW 12.20hrs 4.0m springs Sighting reference number and associated behaviour Travelling ef: 1 Foraging ef : th July 12.35hrs HW 13.52hrs 3.8m neaps Foraging ef : th August 11.25hrs HW 11.10hrs 4.5m springs Foraging ef :4 Harbour Porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) th July 11.25hrs HW 12.20hrs 4m springs Foraging and travelling ef :2 Atlantic Grey Seal (Halichoerus grypus) th August 12.35hrs HW 18.00hrs 4.1m springs Foraging ef :6 Although there is insufficient data to perform a statistical analysis it should be noted that there is an obvious trend for dolphin sightings to be recorded close to high water and generally on spring tides. This pattern was also seen in 2004 (Hughes, 2004). The seal, however, was seen foraging near low tide.

10 ef 4 ef 3 Dive site 3 ef 5 ef 2 Dive site 1 Dive site 2 ef 6 ef 1 ef 7 Fig 2: Sightings positions on Sarn Cynfelyn 2005 = Bottlenose dolphin = Harbour porpoise = Atlantic grey seal = Sea watch Foundation sightings Chart reproduced from chart 1972 Cardigan Bay central part with permission of the controller of Her Majesty s Stationery ffice and the UK Hydrographical ffice. ( Not to be used for Navigation. Notes: ef. 5: was a sighting and photographic opportunity for Bottlenose Dolphin whilst our photographer was on a survey with Sea Watch Foundation on the 21 st April It was considered both relevant and valuable information to our work, and therefore included in this report.

11 The encounter was at 14:26hrs-15:00hrs at position 52 o N 004 o W. Photograph 2 was taken during this encounter. Photo. 2: Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) taking prey species at Dive Site 1. J Baxter This image has been scrutinised by several accredited people in the field of fish identification; conclusions reached indicate that the fish is probably a garfish (Belone belone) or possibly a greater sand eel (Hyperoplus lanceolatus). ef. 7: This relates to two separate encounters with harbour porpoise whilst off effort but en-route to the transect lines.

12 Species data from Dive Sites 1, 2 and 3: (Abundance scale: A = Abundant; C = Common; F = Frequent; = ccasional; = are: P = Present.) Dive site 1: Position: N W Seabed consisted of almost flat sand with very slight ripples from 18.7m to 15.2, then changed to cobbles and pebbles from 15.2m to 4.3m, J. Porter, Seasearch diver, Site 1. Photo. 3: Top of the Sarn at Dive Site 1 showing Chorda filum and mixed teleosts mostly bass (Dicentrachus labrax) and grey mullet (Liza auratus) (J. Porter).

13 Table 2: Species list for Site 1. Liocarcinus depurator (Harbour crab) Bivalve siphons Astropecten irregularis (Starfish) Didemnid ascidian two types, grey and beige Eutrigla gurnardus (Grey gurnard) Pomatoschistus minutus (Sand goby) Callionymus lyra (Dragonet) Juvenile flatfish aja clavata (Thornback ray) Buglossidium luteum (Common skate) Aplidium proliferum (Ascidian) Clavelina lepadiformis (Ascidian) Botryllus schlosseri (Star ascidian) phiura spp. (Brittlestar species) Flustra foliacea (Hornwrack) Chartella papyracea (Bryozoan) Alcyonium digitatum (Dead men s fingers) Hydrallmania falcata (Large hydroid) Nemertesia antennina (Sea beard) Haliclona oculata (Sponge) Mixed red/brown algae C A A C F (Continued overleaf)

14 Table 2: cont. (Species list for Site 1.) Calliblepharis ciliata (red seaweed) Furcellaria lumbricalis ( red seaweed) Chorda filum (Mermaid s tresses) Esperiapsis fuccrum Urticina felina (Dehlia anemone) Anemonia viridis (Snakelocks anemone) Pomatoceros spp. (Keelworm) Barnacles Necora puber (Velvet swimming crab) Maja squinado (Common spider crab) Gibbula spp. (Top shells) Juvenile bass Alcyondium diaphanum (Bryozoan) Parablennius gattorugine (Tompot blenny) Dicentrachus labrax (Bass) Crenilabrus melops (Corkwing wrasse) Ctenolabrus rupestris (Goldsinny) Gobius paganellus (ock goby) Liza auratus (Grey mullet) Scyliorhinus caniculus (Lesser-spotted dogfish) Suberites spp. (Sponge) A C C C C P F F C C C C

15 Fig. 3: Diagram showing species and topography of Site 1 (J. Porter). Dive Site 2: Position: N W

16 Gravel grading to pebbles and cobbles at top of profile, grading back to gravel interspersed with sand/mud at Northern side, L. Crawford, Seasearch diver, Site 2. Table 3: Species list for Site 2. Chorda filum (Mermaid s tresses) Mixed brown seaweeds Mixed red seaweeds Urticina felina (Dahlia anemone) Pomatoceros triqueter (Keelworm species) Necora puber (Velvet swimming crab) Cancer pagurus (Edible crab) Maja squinado (Spider crab) Pagurus bernhardus (Hermit crab) Mytilus edulis (Mussel) Hinia reticulata (Netted dog-whelk) Asterias rubens (Common starfish) Callionymus lyra (Dragonet) Pleuronectes platessa (Plaice) Scyliorhinus caniculus (Lesser spotted dogfish) Crenilabrus melops (Corkwing wrasse) Juvenile Wrasse and Blennies F A F F F A F

17 Fig. 4: Diagram showing species and topography at Site 2 (L. Crawford).

18 Dive Site 3: Position: N W Lightly rippled sand, fairly flat with broken shell debris and Echinocardium tests littered on the surface S. Ward, Seasearch diver, Dive Site 3 Photo. 4: Seabed with numerous burrows of molluscs and annelids (J. Porter)

19 Fig. 5: Diagram showing species and topography at Site 3 (J. Porter). This is a synopsis of the Seasearch data collected. A separate detailed report will be available shortly detailing the information collected for the whole seasons Seasearch diving surveys that have been carried out on Sarn Cynfelyn during This will be available through the JNCC NBN gateway or

20 Discussion The main aims of this project was to investigate foraging and feeding behaviour of the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) and harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena), and to gather new information on prey species for these highly mobile animals. It has been previously recorded that bottlenose dolphin are generalist feeders (Barros and dell, 1990) though selective when there is a choice of food sources (Corkeron et al, 1990). They will take fish, both big and small (Birkun, 2002). Foraging sightings reported in Sarns Pilot Surveys, 2004, indicated that dolphins were actively working an area of ground just to the north of Sarn Cynfelyn (Fig. 6). Whilst this survey only provided a mere snapshot of cetacean activity on the reef, our surveys in 2005 have not only collaborated this, but also led us to believe that usage of this area as a foraging resource may be more extensive than previously thought, particularly earlier on in the season around the months of March through till July (Table 1 and Fig. 2). Fig. 6: 2004 sightings (from Hughes, 2004). BND= Bottlenose dolphin AGS= Atlantic Grey seal It can be seen from Figure 2 that there are three recordings of marine mammal sightings which were not dived in 2005 (ef.1, 4 and 6). ef. 6 relates to foraging on the Sarn by an atlantic grey seal. As opposed to the dolphin data, this was recorded at low tide, but whilst on spring tides. Seals obviously have different environmental requirements to dolphins when foraging and this may explain the timing difference, however, it may purely be an artefact due to lack of data. The surveys conducted in 2004 and 2005 indicate a strong preference for dolphin foraging near to high water tidal times and possibly a preference for the higher spring tides rather than neaps. It is possible that upwellings are present at certain areas on the Sarn, perhaps more apparent at certain tidal states. These may attract fish to feed, and therefore dolphins. Spring tides would produce a stronger current, accelerated further near to the reef crests on the Sarn, and could produce the upwelling effect. It is also possible there is just more teleost activity present when the tide is in full flood. It has been

21 observed that there are extremely strong currents across the Sarn in general, with flows at times believed to be above at least 4 knots on spring tides. To further investigate the significance of the tidal times of sightings more sightings data is required so a full statistical analysis can be performed. The deployment of either a data logger or suitable tidal flow meter would also help answer these questions more fully. ef. 1 relates to four dolphins seen travelling in a southerly direction towards Aberystwyth. These animals were not seen to be foraging on the Sarn. ef. 4 relates to two dolphins seen foraging. These dolphins were seen to be foraging extensively, thoroughly working an area of approximately one kilometre, up and down the linear formation of the Sarn. They were then seen to travel out towards its western extremities not far from the Patches buoy. Here the geology of the area produces a natural bottleneck. The trench running adjacent to and north of the Sarn deepens to at least 16 metres of water, which at mean high water would be approximately 21 to 22 metres deep. The Sarn itself towers along side this rising 13 metres from the bottom of the trench. It turns and widens at the western end of the trench dramatically cutting it off with a wall of cobbles and pebbles. These animals seemed to be swimming both up and down this area. Several raised tail fluke dives were seen, indicating dives into the deeper sections of this natural trench. It is hypothesised that these animals may have been using the geological features of the Sarn as a means of aiding prey capture by herding fish into the bottleneck. Wilson et al. (1997) studying the Moray Firth dolphins suggested similarly that deep narrow channels creating such bottlenecks may increase opportunities for the capture of migratory fish. An anecdotal report from a local charter boat operator, who has spent considerable time over the years on Sarn Cynfelyn, also supports this statement. He has witnessed dolphins herding mackerel (Scomber scombrus) up against the northern side of the Sarn in the trench. He also states that in his opinion the herded fish are reluctant to cross over the Sarn into deeper water and subsequent freedom. (Taylor D, Pers. Comm., 2006). To the east of this location, on the northern edge of the Sarn, the western edge of the mid-channel, photograph 2 was taken (Dive Site 1, ref. 5). The dolphin pictured has taken either a garfish (Belone belone) or a greater sand eel (Hyperoplus lanceolatus). Also one sighting on our 2004 surveys recorded a bottlenose dolphin chasing a bass just to the east of this location A detailed benthic survey took place at this location (Dive Site 1). The benthos at Dive Site 1 ranges from fine sand to leading to a steep cobble and pebble bank, this is reflected in the species diversity with this site having by far the largest species list. There are several types of teleost apparent; sand dwelling e.g. common skate and sand goby; rock and crevice dwelling e.g. corkwing wrasse and tompot blenny; and pelagic e.g. bass and grey mullet (photo. 3 and table 2). The fact that many of these fish are secondary, if not tertiary predators shows the high productivity of the area. This is likely to be both, indirect, through food bought in with water movements, and direct, through the large number of seaweeds and the local production of larvae or

22 nauplii into the surrounding waters. There are numerous species recorded on the species list for Site 1 which as sedentary sexually mature organisms produce vast numbers of larvae at varying times throughout the year, many but certainly not all in the spring. For example, barnacles are recorded as common, a single mature Semibalanus balaniodes, can produce as many as 8000 larvae per year (Fish and Fish, 1989). The species list also records a number of species that are indicators of strong currents e.g. dead man s fingers and dahlia anemones (Fish and Fish, 1989). This links in to the mooted productivity of the area and the possibility of upwellings and currents attracting fish, and in turn dolphins. This site would appear to be a very attractive area for cetaceans to forage. Dive Site 2 is an area that has given rise to several sightings both in 2004 and Here common mussels (Mytilus edulis) dominated a large area, along with seaweeds nearer the top of the Sarn. Mussels are filter feeders and thrive in exposed sites with fast currents. The fauna in this area is intricately knit to the mussel beds with many of the species recorded predating on mussels, either almost exclusively, such as common starfish or as part of a more omnivorous habit, such as the four different crab species found here. This area also appears to be a nursery area for shoals of juvenile teleost which would almost certainly have rich pickings in this area. Again there are species here that dolphin are believed to relish, such as plaice. It is also an area close to the mid-channel that maybe used by migratory fish. n an encounter near Dive Site 3 (ref. 3, fig. 2), a pod of six bottlenose dolphin (five adults and one juvenile) were witnessed exhibiting behaviour indicating deeper and more concentrated foraging activity. This was indicated by vertical tail dives and extended bottom time before surfacing; unfortunately no photographs were obtained to give any indication of prey taken. This behaviour was again in a deeper trench (13.2m chart datum) leading away from the main channel on the Sarn out to the north towards Borth and Aberdovey. According to Hastie et al. (2003a), who researched foraging patterns in the dolphins of the Murray Firth, there is a significant relationship between foraging behaviour and water depth. They state, additionally, that dolphins are likely to have a substantially larger potential search volume of water in which to locate prey in deeper waters. It is highly possible that this is the case in our area. It is also possible that this trench leading through from the main channel on the Sarn provides a natural corridor for migratory fish, such as salmonoids, heading for the mouth of the Dovey, thereby increasing the foraging potential for these animals. It is also possible that these animals were in fact feeding from the seabed. Benthic information previously collected (JNCC, 1999) suggested the seabed at this particular location was probably circa littoral sand, rich in bivalve molluscs. This area was dived, as Dive Site 3, for this study to verify these

23 findings. The results obtained clearly show a clean sand/shell substrate with life apparent particularly with evidence of razor-fish (Ensis ensis) (photo.4). This type of habitat would be expected to have a bottom ecology containing a high polycheate count; indeed lugworm casts are indicated as abundant on the species list (table 4). This combined with a flat sandy/mud/shell bottom should also support a variety of demersal fish such as plaice, flounder and gurnard. Again these are all potential prey species for cetaceans. It has also been shown in the Bahamas (ossbach and Herzing, 1997) that bottlenose dolphins will actually dive into soft sand substrates burying their noses up to the eyes presumably feeding on the molluscs contained there in. This area is particularly productive in sediment dwellers and also has greater scallops which lie in a depression on the surface, easily obtainable, it would appear, for a dolphin. Conclusions The 2005 surveys have clearly shown that Sarn Cynfelyn appears to be a valuable habitat for cetacea particularly the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). The feature offers a variety of mixed biotopes both on the Sarn itself and in areas of fine sand immediately adjacent to it. While this survey only provides a mere snapshot of this foraging and feeding activity by these animals, it does, however, provide a valuable insight into possible prey species available at this location. It is a recommendation of this report that further work should follow on Sarn Cynfelyn in order to assess this aspect and site usage further. Further information should also be gathered on foraging sightings with reference to tidal states. The benthic surveys carried out by local divers that supported this project, have been invaluable, not only in providing new information on habitat, but also allowing for a better understanding of seabed characteristics and biological content associated with surface sightings. The Sarn itself provides a varied and diverse habitat supporting a wide range of both sessile and mobile species. The sheer complexity of these ecosystems cannot be overstated; the predator/prey relationship at the bottom end of the food chain should lead to high levels of plankton and detritus being present on the Sarn during the summer months. Stronger tidal flows sweeping around, over, and in places through the Sarn, may allow for the distribution of nutrients, and animal detritus for consumption by higher animals e.g. teleosts such as bass, mullet, bream and wrasse. The research has also shown that these areas provide ideal havens for juvenile fish. It is these areas that bottlenose dolphin were observed foraging and feeding.

24 bservations of these animals at the surface have also indicated behavioural foraging patterns indicative of herding at one particular area on the Sarn, suggesting that these reefs may be providing natural post glacial stone barriers acting as fish traps. Further work is needed to establish this and quantify anecdotal reports of similar behaviour witnessed by local charter boat operators. To obtain quality photographic images of bottlenose dolphin capturing prey species is not an easy undertaking; the highly mobile nature of these animals requires many hours of effort for sometimes little return, however photographs obtained for this report has identified at least one particular prey species taken by these animals on Sarn Cynfelyn. A separate catalogue will be available in the near future containing a collection of images of prey species taken by bottlenose dolphin at different locations in Cardigan Bay. This will be produced by Baxter, J., 2006 and is an additional supplement to this survey and a valuable contribution to the very limited knowledge available on this subject. It is a recommendation that further survey work should continue in 2006 and beyond both boat based and diver based on Sarn Cynfelyn to increase our understanding of these complex animals and in turn formulate suitable management plans for the protection of these unique habitats. eferences Admiralty, All map extracts included in this report are from Admiralty Chart Cardigan Bay Central Part 1972, new edition eproductions are by permission of the Controller of Her Majesty s Stationery ffice and the UK Hydrographical ffice ( Licence agreement H 1809/041012/01 Barros N. B., dell, D. K., (1990). Food habits of bottlenose dolphin in the south-eastern United States. In The Bottlenose Dolphin. (S. Leatherwood &.. eeves, eds.). Academic Press, San Diego, CA. pp Birkun, A., Jr., (2002). The current status of bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) in the Black Sea. ACCBAMS, AC18 Inf. 2: pp Corkeron, P. J., Bryden, M. M., Hedstrom, K. E., (1990).Feeding by bottlenose dolphin in association with trawling operations in Moreton Bay, Australia. In: The Bottlenose Dolphin. (S. Leatherwood &.. eeves, eds.). Academic Press, San Diego, CA. pp Fish J. D., Fish, S., (1989). A Student s Guide to the Seashore. Unwin Hyman Ltd, London, UK. pp

25 Foster, H. D., Sarn Badrig, a sub-marine moraine in Cardigan Bay, north Wales. Zeitschrift fur Geomorphologie, 14, p Hastie, G. D., Wilson B., Thompon, P. M., (2003a). Fine-scale habitat selection by coastal bottlenose dolphin: application of a new video montage technique. Can. J. Zool. 81: Hughes, P (Thomas E), Sarns and Ceredigion Cetacean Surveys 2004 CCW Species Challenge Fund, Marine projects, CCW Grant No: Sc7916 J.N.C.C., Marine Nature Conservation eview, Sector 10. Cardigan Bay and North Wales. Brazier, P. et al Joint Nature Conservation Committee, coasts and seas of the United Kingdom - MNC series, Area summaries. pp ossbach, K. A., Herzing, D. L., (1997). Underwater observations of benthic feeding bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) near Grand Bahama Island, Bahamas. Marine Mammal Science. 13 (3): Wilson, B., Thompson P. M., Hammond P. S., Habitat use by bottlenose dolphins: seasonal distribution and stratified movement patterns in the Moray Firth, Scotland. J. Applied Ecology 34:

26