Little is known about how humpback whales in the Salish Sea actually feed because they spend up to 95% of their foraging time underwater. This presentation explores the use of a high-tech, multi-sensor tag attached via suction cups on humpback whales off Vancouver Island, to reveal how these large predators behave underwater, used concurrently with a scientific echosounder to ‘see’ the prey. Results are providing exciting insights into foraging behaviour and a more comprehensive understanding into humpback whale foraging decisions.

Rhonda Reidy is a PhD candidate in the Juanes Lab at the University of Victoria. After completing a Master’s degree in Resource Management at Simon Fraser University, Rhonda worked as lead Marine Mammal Observer on multiple offshore geophysical surveys in BC, the North Atlantic and the Canadian Beaufort Sea, broadly strengthening her academic experiences, and reinforcing her commitment to marine science.

This presentation will be aired via Zoom Video Conferencing. On the Monday preceding the event, Nature Vancouver members will receive the Zoom link in the weekly e-News. To join the talk on Thursday, click on that link after 7:15 pm. The talk will begin at 7:30 pm. Non-members are welcome and should Email denis@naturevancouver.ca well in advance to register for the link.