Samenvatting

The Azores have a high marine biodiversity and is one of Europe’s most well-known whale-watching spots. One of the frequently sighted and year-round species is the short-beaked common dolphin (Delphinus delphis). Although this species is sighted year-round, it is unknown whether these are the same individuals and if these individuals show site fidelity, the tendency to return to a specific occupied area. This site fidelity can result in extra vulnerability to existing human-induced disturbances, which many marine life face. This study aimed to determine the site fidelity of the short-beaked common dolphin in the highest sighting density area of São Miguel, Azores and which disturbances are present.