Research
My work is centred around Pacific white-sided dolphins in Mutsu Bay, Aomori in Northern Japan working with Mutsu Bay Dolphin Research. I'm interested in understanding site fidelity using photo-ID as well as habitat use through behavioural studies. My PhD work is focused on assessing the health and status of this population.
Photo Credit: Mutsu Bay Dolphin Research
Photo-ID studies
Collecting photo data of Pacific white-sided dolphins in Mutsu Bay as part of a long-term study. Using unique notches and markings on the dolphins' dorsal fins to identify individuals. Our aims are to establish whether the same individuals return to the bay each year; how long they stay; understand social bonds as well as track migration patterns around Japan.
Behavioural studies
Monitoring the dolphins' behaviour to understand how they use Mutsu Bay. Our focus is on their social behaviour and feeding tactics.
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Publication: Rosser, L. R., Morisaka, T., Mitani, Y., & Igarashi, T. (2022) Calf-directed aggression as a possible infanticide attempt in Pacific white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens). Aquatic Mammals 48(3), 273-286.
Photo Credit: Mutsu Bay Dolphin Research
Other work:
Flipper rubbing
Analysing underwater video data from around Mikura Island, Japan to investigate sex differences in the social behaviour of Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins. Studying 'flipper rubbing', a behaviour that strengthens bonds between dolphins.
Japan Ethology Conference 2019:
Rosser et al. 'Sex differences of flipper rubbing in wild Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins'