TY - RPRT
TI - Analysis of Bird and Marine Mammal Data for Fall of Warness Tidal Test Site, Orkney
AU - Robbins, A
AB - The purpose of this report is to provide a review of the bird and marine mammal observation data for the EMEC Fall of Warness tidal test site from 2005 to 2011. The aims were to explore relationships (if any) between the more frequently observed bird and mammal species’ site usage and habitat and environmental variables. This report can assist in understanding the spatial and temporal distribution of wildlife at the test site, and specifically enable identification of where and when particular species are more likely to encounter test devices or related deployment activity.Main findingsAlmost all species analysed showed seasonal variation in their use of the site, which reflected the breeding and wintering habits that are typical for the species. Harbour porpoise, grey seals and some birds, including eiders, diver and cormorant species, black guillemots and puffins, were found to vary in their usage of the site throughout the day.The usage of pelagic and coastal areas of the site was found to differ between species. Auks, including common guillemot, razorbills and puffins, and harbour porpoise were observed more frequently in pelagic areas. Harbour and grey seals, eider, gannets, cormorant species and black guillemots were all observed more frequently in the areas adjacent to the coastline.Several species showed preferences for particular tidal states, including common and black guillemots, cormorants and shags, and harbour seals. Encounter rates for some species were also found to differ under particular environmental conditions.
DA - 2012/01//
PY - 2012
SP - 64
PB - Scottish Natural Heritage
SN - 614
UR - http://www.gov.scot/Topics/marine/marineenergy/Research/snhwarness
LA - English
KW - Tidal
KW - Marine Energy
KW - Waterfowl
KW - Shorebirds
KW - Seabirds
KW - Pinnipeds
KW - Marine Mammals
KW - Birds
ER -