transmitter tags may be visible on a free-swimming animal 

 even at a considerable distance. 



Natural Markings 



In addition to these man-made and applied tags, 

 variations in natural markings and unusual appearances may 

 be used to identify individuals and herds on repeated 

 encounters. Although many species of cetaceans are 

 characterized by changes in color pattern with age, 

 individuals occasionally differ radically in their coloration 

 from their fellows (App. Figs. A9, AlO). In addition, individ- 



uals are sometimes seen with unusually shaped dorsal fins or 

 scarring patterns (App. Fig. All). These usually marked 

 animals should stand out in repeated encounters and can be a 

 help in identifying a herd from one encounter to another. 



Obviously, this list of tags and anomalous markings is not 

 exhaustive. New marks may be developed at any time. The 

 discussion is intended to make the reader aware of the value 

 of information on natural or man-made marks in studies of 

 cetacean natural history. Your cooperation will perhaps help 

 us to unravel some of the mystery surrounding the 

 distribution and movements of porpoises, dolphins, and 

 whales. 



Appendix Figure A9. — A piebald saddleback dolphin on the bow of a research vessel off San Clemente Island, Calif. (Photo by B. C. Parks.) 



158 



