Conservation charity the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust said that from its research yacht Silurian, which was used in the BBC TV programme Blue Planet, volunteers and scientists spotted 2,303 common dolphins, 42 bottlenose dolphins and 94 Risso’s dolphins in its 2016 expeditions.
Trust director Alison Lomax said: “The impressive range of species documented in our at-sea surveys last year is a powerful reminder that Scotland’s west coast ocean environment is home to remarkable marine life.
The figures for all three species are the highest recorded in the charity’s annual surveys.
Average annual figures over the last 14 years recorded 463 individual common dolphins, 14 bottlenose dolphins and 12 Risso’s dolphins. For common dolphins, records range from zero in earlier field seasons to 1,862 during 2007.
Dr Lauren Hartny-Mills, science officer at the trust, said: “The reasons for the high number of sightings of these charismatic dolphin species and the broader effects on the marine environment and other species remain unclear.
“But the intriguing findings highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and research to strengthen our understanding of what is taking place in Hebridean waters and to ensure well-informed conservation action.”
The latest findings came during a research season lasting from May to October, as part of the trust’s citizen science project monitoring whales, dolphins and porpoises – collectively known as cetaceans – and basking sharks in the area.
Last year saw 71 volunteers work with marine scientists on visual surveys and acoustic monitoring with underwater microphones or hydrophones, and identifying individual cetaceans through photography.
The charity, based on the Isle of Mull, now holds data from a surveyed area measuring more than 95,000km.
It aims to pass the 100,000km milestone during 2017 and recruits volunteers to work for two-week periods between April and September.
“Long-term scientific studies of this globally-important habitat and its inhabitants are crucial if we are to ensure a secure future for the Hebrides’ spectacular cetaceans.”
The whole experience was amazing from start to finish, and that’s even though we never managed to reach the Outer Hebrides, like we'd been hoping (too much wind/swell in the Minch, thanks to hurricane remnants from across the Atlantic, so the Captain advised we turn back to Skye). We chartered the Emma Jane for 8 days, and there were three generations of us from 11 to 65 (including two kids). Most amazing was Chef Louis, who did the impossible, and served food to suit us all, despite our varied and complicated dietary issues. (Very, very tasty food too.) He was ably assisted by Jenny, our Steward, who kept everything running smoothly. And now everyone misses having their breakfast toast served to them in a Harris Tweed toast cosy. The scenery and wildlife were just as amazing, ably interpreted by our naturalist guide Lynsey. We had several pods of dolphins come surf the bow wave, much to everyone’s delight. As well as eagles and many other bird and mammal sightings, as well as rainbows, castles, perfect beachcombing beaches, and so much more. Lynsey led our rambles ashore, with options for the less energetic among us to still enjoy a stroll while those with younger knees tackled the hills. James, our captain, did a fine job of avoiding the worst of the swells, and he consulted with us each step of the way, so even though we were disappointed not to get to Lewis/Harris, we knew it was for the best. James and Lynsey also made for excellent hosts at dinner. This trip was to celebrate our 30th anniversary, and James managed to surprise us by having his daughter pipe in our cake while we were docked in Tobermory, in fine Scottish style. I’ll keep overusing the word “amazing” as it’s the only word which just about manages to capture the experience. Highly recommended. If you are thinking about doing a Hebrides cruise, do it, and do it with these people. You will not be disappointed. Thank you James, Lynsey, Jenny, and Louis; you made our trip extraordinary.
Barry Twycross: 15 August 2024Private Charter 8 Nights