Download AEBR 123 Abundance and distribution of ECSI Hector’s dolphin

Aerial surveys were conducted during the summer and winter of 2013 to estimate Hector's dolphin abundance. The study area extended along the east coast of the South Island (Farewell Spit to Nugget Point) out to 20 nmi, excluding harbours and sounds. After applying statistical methods to account for imperfect detection of dolphins and fraction of study area surveyed, an estimated 9130 (95% CI: 6342–13 144) dolphins were in the study area during the summer and 7456 (5224–10 641) in winter.