Sanctuary
3. Protected environment
why are we here
1. Welcome
Pelagos Sanctuary
2. Protected Sea
New Genoa Dam
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The rules
6. Criminal code
Protected fauna
5. Wild animals
General rules
4. General conduct
No nationality
7. Treaties, conventions
Fin whales and Sperm whales
9. Whales
Are they present here?
8. Cetaceans & Turtles
Small Cetaceans
11. Dolphins
Reptiles etc.
12. Other species
High seas and along the coasts
10. more Cetaceans
New Genoa Dam
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
What could happen
15. Possible impacts
All activities make noise
14. Underwater noise
Conditions to spot the animals
13. Sighting
Reduce the effects
16. Mitigate
Not only strandings
17. Possible effects
HOME
Take good note
20. Pay attention
Stay safe
19. Approaching
18. What we must do
New Genoa Dam
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
23. In the event of a collision
We can be a hazard
22. Not only impact
Things to be considered
21. Precautions
Self-assessment test
Sighting sheet
HOME
New Genoa Dam
1. Welcome
Why we are here
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The construction of the new dam, and the demolition of the existing one, are extensive and complex operations and can be a powerful source of disturbance to the environment. Skilled professionals are regularly present to help with the management of pontentially damaging situations. The presence of marine mammals, dolphins and whales, as well as turtles, is also checked, both through sighting trips and constant underwater acoustic monitoring. An important part of the project is dedicated to staff training, in order to know the precautions to be taken and the actions to be taken in the event of a sighting or approach by protected animals.
index
New Genoa Dam
2. Protected Sea
Pelagos Sanctuary
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The construction site is located in the Pélagos Sanctuary, and also borders a large SCI (Site of Community Interest). The SCI is specifically dedicated to the protection of the bottlenose dolphin, the species of coastal dolphin most easily encountered. The Pélagos Sanctuary is an agreement between Italy, France and the Principality of Monaco, which protects the entire Ligurian Sea, the Tuscan Archipelago, Corsica and the north coast of Sardinia. The three countries ratified the agreement in 2001. The Pelagos Sanctuary is also a 'Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance' (SPAMI). The agreement protects the Cetacean population in an area with ports, ship traffic, fishing and tourism. There are bans, such as the one on the use of pelagic drift nets, strict rules on off-shore races and the study of low-impact fishing systems. The SCI (Site of Community Interest) is a tool to protect habitats, or animal and plant species, considered endangered or critical. It also aims to ensure safe corridors for their migration from one place to another. The newly established SCI is called: 'Protection of the bottlenose dolphin in the Ligurian Sea'.
index
New Genoa Dam
3. Protected environment
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The two 'legal instruments', the Pèlagos sanctuary and the SCI, contain generic rules that do not apply to us.
We must know what precautions to take, to help protect the environment, and to avoid breaking laws and regulations.
The Ligurian coast is regularly frequented by dolphins that you may have happened to spot, the bottlenose dolphins.
Occasionally it is possible to have special encounters, with fin whales, sperm whales or even, as happened in 2019, with a group of killer whales.
index
New Genoa Dam
4. General conduct
Rules
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The rules established during the establishment of the Pelagos Sanctuary include the conduct to be maintained in the presence of Cetaceans, as well as indications on how to handle potentially impactful activities such as construction sites. Even the correct conduct of a vehicle, when animals are present, can make a difference. Work in the manufacturing site at sea can certainly involve critical operations. We must avoid mistakes for which we could be held accountable.
index
New Genoa Dam
5. Wild animals
Protected fauna
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
There are two laws that regulate the relationship with wildlife.Here we will talk about protected wildlife, hence further criticism. But what is the difference between a protected species and a non-protected one? How should we behave? Law 157 of 1992 states: 'Wildlife is the unavailable heritage of the State and is protected in the interest of the national and international community.'
Article 2 adds that 'homeothermic' fauna (warm-blooded animals, i.e. birds and mammals) are protected. Cetaceans, which are mammals, are therefore protected species.
But it does not end there. In addition to dolphins and whales, sea turtles, which are reptiles, are also particularly protected by no less than four international conventions (Washington, Barcelona, Bern and Bonn) and the European Community Habitats Directive.
The sea is not only home to wild animals, which are state property, but also to species whose protection is absolute: no one can catch a dolphin or a turtle.
index
New Genoa Dam
6. Criminal code
The rules
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The second important rule to be aware of is Article 544 ter of the Criminal Code. It could apply to your field of work.
The article reads:
Whoever, out of cruelty or without necessity, causes injury to an animal or subjects it to torture or behaviour or to exertion or work that is unbearable for its ethological characteristics shall be punished by imprisonment from three to eighteen months or a fine ranging from EUR 5,000 to EUR 30,000.
It is therefore important to know how to behave in the presence of animals both to participate personally in environmental protection and not to break the law.
index
New Genoa Dam
7. Treaties and Conventions
No nationality
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
Cetaceans and turtles have no nationality and move freely in the national and international waters of all countries. Conventions have therefore been signed for the protection of the environment, the sea and species crossing national borders (Barcelona, 1976; Bern, 1979; Bonn, 1979 ). These rules also apply in Italy.Italy is also a party to the ACCOBAMS agreement for the protection of the Mediterranean and Black Sea, which establishes protection criteria and indicates, among other things, precise behavioural rules to be kept when interacting with animals. Finally, let us recall the famous 'Red List'. Prepared by the I U C N (International Union for Conservation of Nature), it was established in 1964 and lists all vulnerable or endangered species. This list, which is constantly updated, 'ranks' the most endangered species, and individual countries provide for their protection. According to this text, cetaceans, along with numerous other species, are in a difficult situation.
index
New Genoa Dam
8. Cetaceans & Turtles
Are they present in our seas?
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The presence of cetaceans in Liguria has always been reported. The name 'Portofino' derives from the Latin 'portus delphinii', i.e. port of the dolphin. Thanks to its geographical position and oceanographic characteristics, the Ligurian Sea is a particularly 'attractive' sea for cetaceans. Various species populate these waters. But which animals might we actually encounter during our work? Let us remember that dolphins and whales are mammals and sea turtles are reptiles; both breathe air and therefore, even though they may spend a lot of time underwater, sooner or later they will rise to the surface to breathe.
index
New Genoa Dam
9. Large Cetacei
Among the larges animals
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
Let's meet the largest species (up to 18 20 meters long): we are talking about sperm whales and fin whales. Sperm whales are odontocete cetaceans, they have teeth, and are predators that hunt deep, even beyond 800 meters. This is why they are called 'deep divers'. They also spend periods of time at the surface or at shallow depths. When on the surface they might look like floating logs, but when diving they almost always pull their tails out. Their blowing, powerful and leaning forward, is another element that helps their identification. Fin whales are 'grazing' animals and feed in surface waters down to a depth of about 300 meters. They eat small organisms, such as shrimps, by filtering the water through the baleen, lamellae they have in their mouths. They have no teeth and are part of the group we call mysticetes. Fin whales almost never shows its tail when diving and has a very noticeable, upright, inverted cone-shaped blowhole. Fin whales and sperm whales prefer deep waters and not far from the construction site are two deep canyons in which they are sometimes sighted. They occasionally approach the coast. None of them generally show interest or curiosity towards boats.
index
New Genoa Dam
risso's dolphin
10. more Cetaceans
How many species are present?
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
beaked whale
pilot whales
Three other species that prefer open sea environments are the Risso's dolphins, which can reach up to 4 metres, the Pilot whales and the Beaked whales, slightly larger animals that can reach up to 7 metres. They are all odontocetes, i.e. Cetaceans with teeth and therefore active predators that hunt what they eat. Risso's dolphins (pictured above the title) and Pilot whales (the black ones on the side) can have overt behaviour and in some cases let themselves be approached. Beaked whales, on the other hand, are very shy animals, with rare surface behaviour and making long, deep dives to hunt.
index
SIC
New Genoa Dam
stenelle
bottlenose dolp.
common dolphin
11. Delfini
Quali delfini troviamo
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
Despite its name, the striped dolphin is much more common than the common dolphin. The bottlenose dolphin is a slightly larger grey dolphin than the other two and can reach a length of almost 4 metres. Unlike all the other species described so far, it has distinctly coastal habits. It is not uncommon to see it inside harbours. It can be very familiar with boats and often exploits fishing gear for food. It is the dolphin seen in dolphinariums. The bottlenose dolphin populations in the Pèlagos sanctuary are now well-studied and have been seen to be resident groups moving along the coast, from France to Tuscany. In a few cases, groups of these populations from Liguria have been found in Corsica. The stable presence of these animals, together with their ability to interact with human activities, led to the definition and establishment of the site of Community importance 'Protection of the Bottlenose Dolphin in the Ligurian Sea'.
index
foca monaca
caretta caretta
Humpback whale
New Genoa Dam
Balena grigia
orcas in genova
12. More species
Not only whales and dolphins
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The loggerhead turtle Caretta caretta is also not difficult to meet, and is a reptile. It is the most common turtle in the Mediterranean and lives in deep water, only going ashore to lay its eggs. It makes very long migrations, breathes air, and at rest can do apneas of hours. All turtles are protectedExtremely rare, we may also find the monk seal (which is a marine mammal but not a cetacean). You may have read in recent years of sightings of orcas, humpback or grey whales. These occasional and unusual occurrences of animals could be due to stressful or distressed conditions and early reporting could be valuable.
index
New Genoa Dam
13. Sightings
Is it difficult to spot a dolphin at sea?
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
There are conditions that facilitate sightings: weather conditions, the size of the animal, the number of individuals, surface behaviour, and of course, experience. In the event of a sighting, we try to note down the relevant information, namely: date and time, gps position, photographs if possible, current activities and any notes. We must remember that the world perceived by an animal can be very different from the one perceived by us. A detail that is unimportant to us may be important to the animals. This observation becomes very important when we try to assess the possible disturbance we cause to the animals through our activities at sea.
index
New Genoa Dam
14. Noise underwater
Sounds in the water travel very far
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
We need to understand how a dolphin relates to its environment by trying to imagine how it perceives the world. If I introduced into the water, for example, a high-frequency, very powerful sound, which in our perception simply does not exist, what could happen? I could, in this case, do a lot of damage, since dolphins, for example, have the ability to hear high-pitched sounds far beyond our capacity. Moreover, just as in humans, damage can be done even if the stimulus is of low intensity but of long duration. As you may have guessed, sound and noise in water are very important aspects in the lives of cetaceans.
index
New Genoa Dam
15. Potential effects
If things go wrong
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
Our activities can create direct damage. In the short term, for example in the case of a collision, or in the long term as in the case of prolonged exposure to noise. Short-term damage is easier to assess, has immediate consequences on an animal or group and can have immediate consequences on site activities. If a dolphin dies in or near construction site areas, it is a problem. Not only ethical, but also practical. These are in fact protected species. Large marine vertebrates (whales and dolphins above all) have a great emotional appeal and therefore great media attention. Long-term damage is less easy to detect: its effects are seen after a long period of time. However, they are just as important precisely because of their invisibility and ability to impact an entire population.
index
New Genoa Dam
16. Reduce the risks
Precautionary approach
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
Animals that move around us can also suffer indirect damage. These are usually medium to long-term damages and are the ones with the worst effects. One example is the displacement of food sources: if activities cause some prey to move away, the animals that eat it suffer damage. Or if noise in the environment increases, then communication in some species may become difficult or impossible. Animals that use sounds to communicate, even at great distances, may be challenged by an increase in noise. Each impact must be considered in its context: a noise in an already very noisy environment has one weight, the same noise in a silent context has another. It can be tricky to predict which activities may cause damage, which is why constant and prolonged monitoring by experienced professionals is required.
index
New Genoa Dam
17. Mitigation
How to study and to compensate effects
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
What are the effects of the construction site of the new Genoa Dam? Let's try to make a short list: the increase in ship traffic, spills, explosions related to demolition or clearance of war ordnance, activities related to the compaction of the substrate, geological and geophysical prospecting, and the positioning of the new embankment. All these activities produce noise levels outside the norm. But is it possible to eliminate or reduce the impacts? Certainly yes. Before, during and after the work, specialised professionals monitor the areas to check for the presence of endangered animals, for example. These monitoring activities follow international protocols and are based on established models and experience.
index
New Genoa Dam
18. What should we do?
Is it easy to spot dolphins?
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
On the boats dedicated to visual observation, they observe the surface of the sea in search of those signs that are associated with the sighting. The team members scan the horizon according to a predetermined pattern, either with the naked eye or with binoculars. Success, in terms of animals sighted, can be variable and depends not only on the animals themselves, but also on the skill, training and experience of the spotter, as well as the weather conditions. Sightings are obviously made during daylight hours. The presence of wind, which raises waves with crests, drastically reduces the chance of success. Rain, fog, everything that normally reduces visibility, also affects sightings. In short, it is an important practice, but it cannot guarantee seeing all the animals present. Let us continue by seeing what we can do.
index
New Genoa Dam
19. Technique
Basics of observation
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The best approach is to make sightings with the naked eye. Binoculars can be used to confirm or otherwise the sighting. It is normally prudent to keep an eye on the vicinity while driving a boat to avoid collisions. If spotting another boat is relatively easy, spotting an animal that protrudes from the water for just a few seconds is not trivial. What you need to look for is a discontinuity, even a small one. A good system is to follow a scan, in sectors, of the horizon. While looking at the sea, do not overlook details that may catch your eye, even for a fraction of a second. If you feel you have seen something, keep looking in the same direction for a few seconds. It could be the dorsal fin of a dolphin. A couple of confirmations and the sighting is certain.
index
New Genoa Dam
20. Let's pay attention
What could I see?
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
Here you can see some photos of possible details that help you improve your sightings. Can you identify anything? Even more complicated is spotting turtles when they are far away. A bit easier if they are close to the boat. A spot of a different colour, just below the surface. Turtles swim slowly and are not easily frightened. They can simply continue minding their own business, breathing slowly while resting, or diving.
index
New Genoa Dam
21. Precautionary principle
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
What should I do once I spot an animal in the vicinity of the boat? You must understand that animals do not reason like us and you should not expect behaviour, such as fleeing, that would make sense to us. This could lead them to cross your boat's path, or stop near your boat during a work process that could pose a risk. The first thing is to avoid abrupt manoeuvres. If an animal or group appears to be on a collision course with your boat, do not perform sharp turns or manoeuvres, but slow down progressively. At reduced speed, you can try to move the bow away from the animals' trajectory, trying not to cross their path. Manoeuvres should never be sudden. In construction site areas, close to shore where animals may have few escape routes, abrupt changes may frighten them and prompt them to take dangerous actions. These general rules are the same as those to be followed by convoys moving at low speed and with little opportunity to manoeuvre. Stay on course, reduce speed if possible, and if necessary move the bow slightly so that the 'target' comes down.
index
New Genoa Dam
22. Not impacts only
Other risks
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
If animals are in the construction site area, during noisy or dangerous work, it is better if possible to stop operations until they are removed. There is not only the risk of collision. Their main sense is hearing. They live in a world of sound. Sound in water is much faster and is much better transmitted than in air. Of all the noises produced in the shipyard, that of the propellers, of the ships, of the tugs is the most intense, even though we hardly hear it. Intense noise has two effects on cetaceans: We significantly reduce their ability to 'see' the environment with sound, In the long term, intense noise damages their hearing permanently. It is as if we progressively lose our sight. Slowing down our vessel, temporarily suspending or decreasing activity intensity is the best way to reduce the disturbance.
index
New Genoa Dam
23. If a strike occurs
Unexpected events
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The first thing, the usual one, is to remain calm. Small Cetaceans are used to swimming very close to ships and do so in safety. Large Cetaceans, on the other hand, can be involved in collisions, even with fatal outcomes. In the event of an impact, you must communicate with the Coast Guard, VHF radio CH16, by calling COMPAMARE GENOVA, following the instructions you are given. Immediately afterwards, we ask you to call the Ge.Co. manager in charge of marine mammal monitoring, Dr. Federica Maggiani, on +39 338 972 1787.
index
New Genoa Dam
Documenti e Test
Se volete scaricare il corso o procedere con il test
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
Well, now that you have completed the sheets, you can try to do a short self-assessment test.
Here you will find the form for noting and reporting sightings of cetaceans and any other animals.
index
New Genoa Dam
This course
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
This short course was created by texts, preparation and layout Giovanni Caltavuturo , Claudio Fossati Michele Manghi Supervision by Federica Maggiani - Ge.Co. Coastal Management
index
new Genoa Dam
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Transcript
Sanctuary
3. Protected environment
why are we here
1. Welcome
Pelagos Sanctuary
2. Protected Sea
New Genoa Dam
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The rules
6. Criminal code
Protected fauna
5. Wild animals
General rules
4. General conduct
No nationality
7. Treaties, conventions
Fin whales and Sperm whales
9. Whales
Are they present here?
8. Cetaceans & Turtles
Small Cetaceans
11. Dolphins
Reptiles etc.
12. Other species
High seas and along the coasts
10. more Cetaceans
New Genoa Dam
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
What could happen
15. Possible impacts
All activities make noise
14. Underwater noise
Conditions to spot the animals
13. Sighting
Reduce the effects
16. Mitigate
Not only strandings
17. Possible effects
HOME
Take good note
20. Pay attention
Stay safe
19. Approaching
18. What we must do
New Genoa Dam
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
23. In the event of a collision
We can be a hazard
22. Not only impact
Things to be considered
21. Precautions
Self-assessment test
Sighting sheet
HOME
New Genoa Dam
1. Welcome
Why we are here
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The construction of the new dam, and the demolition of the existing one, are extensive and complex operations and can be a powerful source of disturbance to the environment. Skilled professionals are regularly present to help with the management of pontentially damaging situations. The presence of marine mammals, dolphins and whales, as well as turtles, is also checked, both through sighting trips and constant underwater acoustic monitoring. An important part of the project is dedicated to staff training, in order to know the precautions to be taken and the actions to be taken in the event of a sighting or approach by protected animals.
index
New Genoa Dam
2. Protected Sea
Pelagos Sanctuary
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The construction site is located in the Pélagos Sanctuary, and also borders a large SCI (Site of Community Interest). The SCI is specifically dedicated to the protection of the bottlenose dolphin, the species of coastal dolphin most easily encountered. The Pélagos Sanctuary is an agreement between Italy, France and the Principality of Monaco, which protects the entire Ligurian Sea, the Tuscan Archipelago, Corsica and the north coast of Sardinia. The three countries ratified the agreement in 2001. The Pelagos Sanctuary is also a 'Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance' (SPAMI). The agreement protects the Cetacean population in an area with ports, ship traffic, fishing and tourism. There are bans, such as the one on the use of pelagic drift nets, strict rules on off-shore races and the study of low-impact fishing systems. The SCI (Site of Community Interest) is a tool to protect habitats, or animal and plant species, considered endangered or critical. It also aims to ensure safe corridors for their migration from one place to another. The newly established SCI is called: 'Protection of the bottlenose dolphin in the Ligurian Sea'.
index
New Genoa Dam
3. Protected environment
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The two 'legal instruments', the Pèlagos sanctuary and the SCI, contain generic rules that do not apply to us. We must know what precautions to take, to help protect the environment, and to avoid breaking laws and regulations. The Ligurian coast is regularly frequented by dolphins that you may have happened to spot, the bottlenose dolphins. Occasionally it is possible to have special encounters, with fin whales, sperm whales or even, as happened in 2019, with a group of killer whales.
index
New Genoa Dam
4. General conduct
Rules
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The rules established during the establishment of the Pelagos Sanctuary include the conduct to be maintained in the presence of Cetaceans, as well as indications on how to handle potentially impactful activities such as construction sites. Even the correct conduct of a vehicle, when animals are present, can make a difference. Work in the manufacturing site at sea can certainly involve critical operations. We must avoid mistakes for which we could be held accountable.
index
New Genoa Dam
5. Wild animals
Protected fauna
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
There are two laws that regulate the relationship with wildlife.Here we will talk about protected wildlife, hence further criticism. But what is the difference between a protected species and a non-protected one? How should we behave? Law 157 of 1992 states: 'Wildlife is the unavailable heritage of the State and is protected in the interest of the national and international community.' Article 2 adds that 'homeothermic' fauna (warm-blooded animals, i.e. birds and mammals) are protected. Cetaceans, which are mammals, are therefore protected species. But it does not end there. In addition to dolphins and whales, sea turtles, which are reptiles, are also particularly protected by no less than four international conventions (Washington, Barcelona, Bern and Bonn) and the European Community Habitats Directive. The sea is not only home to wild animals, which are state property, but also to species whose protection is absolute: no one can catch a dolphin or a turtle.
index
New Genoa Dam
6. Criminal code
The rules
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The second important rule to be aware of is Article 544 ter of the Criminal Code. It could apply to your field of work. The article reads: Whoever, out of cruelty or without necessity, causes injury to an animal or subjects it to torture or behaviour or to exertion or work that is unbearable for its ethological characteristics shall be punished by imprisonment from three to eighteen months or a fine ranging from EUR 5,000 to EUR 30,000. It is therefore important to know how to behave in the presence of animals both to participate personally in environmental protection and not to break the law.
index
New Genoa Dam
7. Treaties and Conventions
No nationality
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
Cetaceans and turtles have no nationality and move freely in the national and international waters of all countries. Conventions have therefore been signed for the protection of the environment, the sea and species crossing national borders (Barcelona, 1976; Bern, 1979; Bonn, 1979 ). These rules also apply in Italy.Italy is also a party to the ACCOBAMS agreement for the protection of the Mediterranean and Black Sea, which establishes protection criteria and indicates, among other things, precise behavioural rules to be kept when interacting with animals. Finally, let us recall the famous 'Red List'. Prepared by the I U C N (International Union for Conservation of Nature), it was established in 1964 and lists all vulnerable or endangered species. This list, which is constantly updated, 'ranks' the most endangered species, and individual countries provide for their protection. According to this text, cetaceans, along with numerous other species, are in a difficult situation.
index
New Genoa Dam
8. Cetaceans & Turtles
Are they present in our seas?
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The presence of cetaceans in Liguria has always been reported. The name 'Portofino' derives from the Latin 'portus delphinii', i.e. port of the dolphin. Thanks to its geographical position and oceanographic characteristics, the Ligurian Sea is a particularly 'attractive' sea for cetaceans. Various species populate these waters. But which animals might we actually encounter during our work? Let us remember that dolphins and whales are mammals and sea turtles are reptiles; both breathe air and therefore, even though they may spend a lot of time underwater, sooner or later they will rise to the surface to breathe.
index
New Genoa Dam
9. Large Cetacei
Among the larges animals
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
Let's meet the largest species (up to 18 20 meters long): we are talking about sperm whales and fin whales. Sperm whales are odontocete cetaceans, they have teeth, and are predators that hunt deep, even beyond 800 meters. This is why they are called 'deep divers'. They also spend periods of time at the surface or at shallow depths. When on the surface they might look like floating logs, but when diving they almost always pull their tails out. Their blowing, powerful and leaning forward, is another element that helps their identification. Fin whales are 'grazing' animals and feed in surface waters down to a depth of about 300 meters. They eat small organisms, such as shrimps, by filtering the water through the baleen, lamellae they have in their mouths. They have no teeth and are part of the group we call mysticetes. Fin whales almost never shows its tail when diving and has a very noticeable, upright, inverted cone-shaped blowhole. Fin whales and sperm whales prefer deep waters and not far from the construction site are two deep canyons in which they are sometimes sighted. They occasionally approach the coast. None of them generally show interest or curiosity towards boats.
index
New Genoa Dam
risso's dolphin
10. more Cetaceans
How many species are present?
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
beaked whale
pilot whales
Three other species that prefer open sea environments are the Risso's dolphins, which can reach up to 4 metres, the Pilot whales and the Beaked whales, slightly larger animals that can reach up to 7 metres. They are all odontocetes, i.e. Cetaceans with teeth and therefore active predators that hunt what they eat. Risso's dolphins (pictured above the title) and Pilot whales (the black ones on the side) can have overt behaviour and in some cases let themselves be approached. Beaked whales, on the other hand, are very shy animals, with rare surface behaviour and making long, deep dives to hunt.
index
SIC
New Genoa Dam
stenelle
bottlenose dolp.
common dolphin
11. Delfini
Quali delfini troviamo
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
Despite its name, the striped dolphin is much more common than the common dolphin. The bottlenose dolphin is a slightly larger grey dolphin than the other two and can reach a length of almost 4 metres. Unlike all the other species described so far, it has distinctly coastal habits. It is not uncommon to see it inside harbours. It can be very familiar with boats and often exploits fishing gear for food. It is the dolphin seen in dolphinariums. The bottlenose dolphin populations in the Pèlagos sanctuary are now well-studied and have been seen to be resident groups moving along the coast, from France to Tuscany. In a few cases, groups of these populations from Liguria have been found in Corsica. The stable presence of these animals, together with their ability to interact with human activities, led to the definition and establishment of the site of Community importance 'Protection of the Bottlenose Dolphin in the Ligurian Sea'.
index
foca monaca
caretta caretta
Humpback whale
New Genoa Dam
Balena grigia
orcas in genova
12. More species
Not only whales and dolphins
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The loggerhead turtle Caretta caretta is also not difficult to meet, and is a reptile. It is the most common turtle in the Mediterranean and lives in deep water, only going ashore to lay its eggs. It makes very long migrations, breathes air, and at rest can do apneas of hours. All turtles are protectedExtremely rare, we may also find the monk seal (which is a marine mammal but not a cetacean). You may have read in recent years of sightings of orcas, humpback or grey whales. These occasional and unusual occurrences of animals could be due to stressful or distressed conditions and early reporting could be valuable.
index
New Genoa Dam
13. Sightings
Is it difficult to spot a dolphin at sea?
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
There are conditions that facilitate sightings: weather conditions, the size of the animal, the number of individuals, surface behaviour, and of course, experience. In the event of a sighting, we try to note down the relevant information, namely: date and time, gps position, photographs if possible, current activities and any notes. We must remember that the world perceived by an animal can be very different from the one perceived by us. A detail that is unimportant to us may be important to the animals. This observation becomes very important when we try to assess the possible disturbance we cause to the animals through our activities at sea.
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New Genoa Dam
14. Noise underwater
Sounds in the water travel very far
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
We need to understand how a dolphin relates to its environment by trying to imagine how it perceives the world. If I introduced into the water, for example, a high-frequency, very powerful sound, which in our perception simply does not exist, what could happen? I could, in this case, do a lot of damage, since dolphins, for example, have the ability to hear high-pitched sounds far beyond our capacity. Moreover, just as in humans, damage can be done even if the stimulus is of low intensity but of long duration. As you may have guessed, sound and noise in water are very important aspects in the lives of cetaceans.
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New Genoa Dam
15. Potential effects
If things go wrong
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
Our activities can create direct damage. In the short term, for example in the case of a collision, or in the long term as in the case of prolonged exposure to noise. Short-term damage is easier to assess, has immediate consequences on an animal or group and can have immediate consequences on site activities. If a dolphin dies in or near construction site areas, it is a problem. Not only ethical, but also practical. These are in fact protected species. Large marine vertebrates (whales and dolphins above all) have a great emotional appeal and therefore great media attention. Long-term damage is less easy to detect: its effects are seen after a long period of time. However, they are just as important precisely because of their invisibility and ability to impact an entire population.
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New Genoa Dam
16. Reduce the risks
Precautionary approach
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
Animals that move around us can also suffer indirect damage. These are usually medium to long-term damages and are the ones with the worst effects. One example is the displacement of food sources: if activities cause some prey to move away, the animals that eat it suffer damage. Or if noise in the environment increases, then communication in some species may become difficult or impossible. Animals that use sounds to communicate, even at great distances, may be challenged by an increase in noise. Each impact must be considered in its context: a noise in an already very noisy environment has one weight, the same noise in a silent context has another. It can be tricky to predict which activities may cause damage, which is why constant and prolonged monitoring by experienced professionals is required.
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New Genoa Dam
17. Mitigation
How to study and to compensate effects
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
What are the effects of the construction site of the new Genoa Dam? Let's try to make a short list: the increase in ship traffic, spills, explosions related to demolition or clearance of war ordnance, activities related to the compaction of the substrate, geological and geophysical prospecting, and the positioning of the new embankment. All these activities produce noise levels outside the norm. But is it possible to eliminate or reduce the impacts? Certainly yes. Before, during and after the work, specialised professionals monitor the areas to check for the presence of endangered animals, for example. These monitoring activities follow international protocols and are based on established models and experience.
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New Genoa Dam
18. What should we do?
Is it easy to spot dolphins?
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
On the boats dedicated to visual observation, they observe the surface of the sea in search of those signs that are associated with the sighting. The team members scan the horizon according to a predetermined pattern, either with the naked eye or with binoculars. Success, in terms of animals sighted, can be variable and depends not only on the animals themselves, but also on the skill, training and experience of the spotter, as well as the weather conditions. Sightings are obviously made during daylight hours. The presence of wind, which raises waves with crests, drastically reduces the chance of success. Rain, fog, everything that normally reduces visibility, also affects sightings. In short, it is an important practice, but it cannot guarantee seeing all the animals present. Let us continue by seeing what we can do.
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New Genoa Dam
19. Technique
Basics of observation
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The best approach is to make sightings with the naked eye. Binoculars can be used to confirm or otherwise the sighting. It is normally prudent to keep an eye on the vicinity while driving a boat to avoid collisions. If spotting another boat is relatively easy, spotting an animal that protrudes from the water for just a few seconds is not trivial. What you need to look for is a discontinuity, even a small one. A good system is to follow a scan, in sectors, of the horizon. While looking at the sea, do not overlook details that may catch your eye, even for a fraction of a second. If you feel you have seen something, keep looking in the same direction for a few seconds. It could be the dorsal fin of a dolphin. A couple of confirmations and the sighting is certain.
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New Genoa Dam
20. Let's pay attention
What could I see?
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
Here you can see some photos of possible details that help you improve your sightings. Can you identify anything? Even more complicated is spotting turtles when they are far away. A bit easier if they are close to the boat. A spot of a different colour, just below the surface. Turtles swim slowly and are not easily frightened. They can simply continue minding their own business, breathing slowly while resting, or diving.
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New Genoa Dam
21. Precautionary principle
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
What should I do once I spot an animal in the vicinity of the boat? You must understand that animals do not reason like us and you should not expect behaviour, such as fleeing, that would make sense to us. This could lead them to cross your boat's path, or stop near your boat during a work process that could pose a risk. The first thing is to avoid abrupt manoeuvres. If an animal or group appears to be on a collision course with your boat, do not perform sharp turns or manoeuvres, but slow down progressively. At reduced speed, you can try to move the bow away from the animals' trajectory, trying not to cross their path. Manoeuvres should never be sudden. In construction site areas, close to shore where animals may have few escape routes, abrupt changes may frighten them and prompt them to take dangerous actions. These general rules are the same as those to be followed by convoys moving at low speed and with little opportunity to manoeuvre. Stay on course, reduce speed if possible, and if necessary move the bow slightly so that the 'target' comes down.
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22. Not impacts only
Other risks
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
If animals are in the construction site area, during noisy or dangerous work, it is better if possible to stop operations until they are removed. There is not only the risk of collision. Their main sense is hearing. They live in a world of sound. Sound in water is much faster and is much better transmitted than in air. Of all the noises produced in the shipyard, that of the propellers, of the ships, of the tugs is the most intense, even though we hardly hear it. Intense noise has two effects on cetaceans: We significantly reduce their ability to 'see' the environment with sound, In the long term, intense noise damages their hearing permanently. It is as if we progressively lose our sight. Slowing down our vessel, temporarily suspending or decreasing activity intensity is the best way to reduce the disturbance.
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23. If a strike occurs
Unexpected events
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
The first thing, the usual one, is to remain calm. Small Cetaceans are used to swimming very close to ships and do so in safety. Large Cetaceans, on the other hand, can be involved in collisions, even with fatal outcomes. In the event of an impact, you must communicate with the Coast Guard, VHF radio CH16, by calling COMPAMARE GENOVA, following the instructions you are given. Immediately afterwards, we ask you to call the Ge.Co. manager in charge of marine mammal monitoring, Dr. Federica Maggiani, on +39 338 972 1787.
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New Genoa Dam
Documenti e Test
Se volete scaricare il corso o procedere con il test
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
Well, now that you have completed the sheets, you can try to do a short self-assessment test.
Here you will find the form for noting and reporting sightings of cetaceans and any other animals.
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New Genoa Dam
This course
Good Practices for Reducing Impacts on Cetaceans
This short course was created by texts, preparation and layout Giovanni Caltavuturo , Claudio Fossati Michele Manghi Supervision by Federica Maggiani - Ge.Co. Coastal Management
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