Whale Dolphin and Porpoise Sightings Project
A pilot study is underway for a new and exciting sightings scheme for seafarers and members of the public to report their encounters with whale, dolphin and porpoise.Although we are aware of the presence of these amazing marine mammals in our waters, there is little official data recorded for them in the waters of North Wales. We are hoping that with your help we can start to get a better picture of the distribution of these spectacular creatures.
Species known to be present in these waters are Harbour porpoises, Bottlenose dolphins, Risso’s dolphins, Minke whale, Common dolphins and Pilot Whale. Click on the link to see the Species Identification Guide.
Please Report your Sightings
All sightings are important, however uncertain, If you have any to report please download our sightings form. You can also call us on 07975628207 or e-mail info@saveourseas.co.ukWe are piloting 2 different Sightings Forms. Please let us know which you find easier to use. At the moment it is not possible to complete these forms online. By clicking on the link you will be able to print these out. Alternatively do get in touch and we can send you some forms.
Sightings Form1
Sightings Form2
Although we are we are primarily interested in cetaceans please also let us know if you see any Shark, in particular Basking Shark, or Sun Fish, or Turtles.
Code of Conduct
Do remember to take the utmost care around Dolphins, Porpoises and Whale. They are protected species under UK and EU law, and it is an offence to harm or recklessly disturb them. Whilst enjoying your experience with these fantastic marine mammals it is essential that you follow these simple guidelines:Do not head directly towards cetaceans
If you sight them at a distance, maintain a steady speed and course, slowing down to six knots when you get within a kilometre (approx. 1/2 nautical mile) of them.
Do not approach closer than 100m, and do not remain in contact longer than 15 minutes
Scientific studies have shown that dolphins respond negatively to craft moving directly at them, increasing the time they spend underwater and often swimming rapidly away from the sound source.
Never encircle cetaceans
Allow them to approach, or leave of their own will. Be aware of the presence of other vessels, it is very sensible to leave the area if it happens to be already busy. Ensure that no more than two vessels are within 1 kilometre of cetaceans.
Let them approach you
Cetaceans are more likely to approach you and bow ride if you maintain a steady course and speed. Refrain from altering course to approach them and remember that they may choose not to bow-ride.
Make sure that groups stay together
Make sure you do not split up groups of cetaceans. Avoid approaching cetaceans with young; you risk disrupting mother-calf bonds and expose inexperienced young to stress and possible boat strikes.
Avoid swimming, touching or feeding whales, dolphins or porpoises, for your safety and theirs
Remember, that just as with humans, you could spread disease to them, and vice versa. Also remember that they are wild animals, and larger and more powerful than you and can unwittingly cause injury.
Take care to avoid collision
If you are regularly using your vessel in areas where cetaceans are known to occur should consider fitting propeller guards to minimise the risk of injury to cetaceans.
Look out for signs of disturbance
Tail-slapping, erratic changes in speed and direction, lengthy periods underwater are all signs of excessive disturbance and possible stress. If you notice any such behaviour, leave the area slowly, only resuming maximum speed when you are 1 kilometre away.
You can download and print out our Code of Conduct here.
Remember - Observe. Don’t Disturb
A BIG thank you to all those taking part in this study, and do check back here, as we will be updating the findings on these pages.
