Whale and dolphin conservation in Scotland

You can help collect data on Scotland’s whale and dolphin populations crucial to improve conservation measures. Take to the Moray Firth in 5.4-meter rigid-hulled inflatable boats to conduct systematic surveys.

This 5,000-square-kilometer embayment, surrounded by majestic cliffs, rolling farmland, and heritage fishing villages, is fed by both warm and cold waters from the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. Its productive waters attract an abundance of fish, providing rich feeding grounds for marine mammals and seabirds.

As many as 22 species of whales and dolphins have been sighted here, and the firth is a key habitat for harbor porpoises, bottlenose dolphins, and minke whales, all of which have suffered from declines in European waters in recent decades. The only population of bottlenose dolphins in the North Sea can be found here, and minke whales using these rich inshore waters in the late summer months are still subject to whaling in nearby seas. A typical research day begins at 9:00 am. After a nourishing breakfast, the team assembles by 10:00 am. Preparations are made for a day at sea, with lunch being prepared and equipment packed and loaded into the boats. These are fuelled and fully prepared and the crew gets dressed in sea-going gear. With trip logs filled in and engines started, the boats, each carrying four volunteers and two research staff, then head out on their survey routes. Survey trips typically last 4-6 hours, but, depending on the sea conditions and the number of encounters, they may be longer or shorter.

Lunch may be taken out at sea on the boat, or stops may be made at designated harbors along survey routes. Rest stops may also be taken in harbors. While whale and dolphin sightings cannot be guaranteed, some days can be incredibly busy with numerous encounters. Recording behaviour, movement and composition of groups involves a concentrated team effort. Once boats have been returned to their moorings and equipment has been re-stowed, on arrival back at the office team members are usually needed to write up and file the day’s data.

Evening meals are prepared by volunteers and staff members on a rotational basis and are eaten together. Slide shows or lectures may be given by the research staff in the evenings. Alternatively, the team may opt for a diversity of social events and games, or volunteers may prefer to sample some of the excellent local ales and beverages at the local pub before retiring.