NODC Standard Format Marine Mammals of Coastal Alaska Data (1979-1991): Sighting and Census (F127) (NCEI Accession 0014197)

NODC maintains data in three NODC Standard Format Marine Mammal Data Sets: Marine Mammal Sighting and Census (F127); Marine Mammal Specimens (F025); Marine Mammal Sighting 2 (F026). These data type formats are designed to support studies of biological populations and ecosystems that are subject to impact from oil and gas development, marine pollution and other environmental disturbances. Information on marine animal populations, activities, migratory routes and breeding locales are obtained from either surface ship or aircraft surveys.

The Marine Mammal Sighting and Census (F127) data type contains data from field observations of marine mammals. Obtained from ship or aircraft surveys, the data are collected to provide information on population density and distribution, mammal behavior and activity, migratory routes and breeding locales. In addition to data on the survey track and observed environmental conditions (including ice conditions, if encountered), F127 data may contain data from each species sighted. Parameters reported may include group size; total number of individuals, adults (males and females), subadults and pups; and mammal activity. F127 contains data for 1979 - 1991.