Differences in individual bowhead whale Balaena mysticetus habitat use, foraging dive depth and diet during the peak feeding season

Shifts in zooplankton quantity and quality caused by climate change could challenge the ability of bowhead whales to meet their energetic requirements. When facing such selection pressure, intra-population variation dampens negative effects provides population-level resilience. Previous studies observed inter-individual diet whales, but mechanism responsible for was undetermined. We investigated foraging variability Eastern Canada-West Greenland using dietary biomarkers (stable isotopes, fatty acids) movement data (satellite telemetry with time-depth recorders) from same individuals. found that whale individuals distinct summer fall habitats displayed differences horizontal movements, dive depth, diet. For Canadian Arctic Archipelago habitat (Foxe Basin, Gulf Boothia, Prince Regent Inlet, Lancaster Sound Admiralty Nunavut), they performed long distance movements across regions, depth generally shallow, increased July November. These higher δ 13 C 15 N values ratios C16:1n7/C16:0. Individuals West Baffin Bay (Cumberland Sound, Bay, Davis Strait) were more localized consistent over time which deeper. lower Overall, this behaviour indicate some niche would be beneficial population under changing prey availability.