Abundance and Distribution of Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphins (Sousa Chinensis) in the Shimoni Archipelago, Kenya

This paper provides the first record of the distribution of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis) and an estimate of their abundance within the Shimoni Archipelogo, Kenya. Boat-based surveys (n=167) were conducted during 2006, using photographic identification (photo-id) techniques and mark-recapture methods for open populations (Jolly-Seber model) to estimate the abundance of humpback dolphins inhabiting the Wasini Channel (104: 95% CI 67-160). Their distribution was mapped within a 50% isopleth of encounter locations in the Wasini Channel, identified as the core habitat area. Most (97%) sightings were recorded outside the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Protected Area (KMMPA). Further research is required but it is likely that the protection afforded by the Kenyan Wildlife Service (KWS) in their management of the KMMPA needs to be expanded to the Wasini Channel to ensure protection of the habitat of this small group of humpback dolphins.