New migration and distribution patterns of Atlantic walruses (Odobenus rosmarus rosmarus) around Nunavik (Québec, Canada) identified using Inuit Knowledge

• DOI: 10.1007/s00300-021-02920-6
• Publication Date: 2021-08-06T16:02:42Z
• Authors: Laura M. Martinez...; Chris M. Furgal; Mike O. Hammill; Dominique A. Henri; Gary Burness
• Keywords: Marine mammal

Environmental changes are affecting the Arctic at an unprecedented rate, but limited scientific knowledge exists on their impacts species such as walruses (Odobenus rosmarus). Inuit Traditional and Local Ecological Knowledge (Inuit TEK/LEK) held by walrus harvesters could shed light ecology related environmental changes. Our main objective was to study spatial temporal in Atlantic rosmarus rosmarus) distribution Nunavik (northern Québec, Canada) using TEK/LEK. To do so, we documented observations of 33 local hunters Elders part a larger project Nunavik. We first gathered information land use patterns harvesting practices through time space, which crucial step avoid potential biases interpreting distribution. found that now covering smaller hunting areas over shorter periods, reducing space around While clearly taking these limitations into account, learned from interviews some abandoned past were being re-occupied. Importantly, walruses, migrate following melting ice, traveling along eastern coast one month earlier, suggesting migration has changed due variations sea-ice coverage not only highlighted important Nunavik, also sheds importance documenting understand Knowledge.The online version contains supplementary material available 10.1007/s00300-021-02920-6.