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.”
We had an amazing week on the Elizabeth G following the sun. Thanks to our skilled skipper Chris who would change plans and re-route us at a moments notice to ensure that we got the best out of our time on board and ashore. Lauren our guide was continually on hand spotting wildlife, educating us and instructing the Skipper to turn the boat on a sixpence, if required, to ensure everyone had the best view. We were rewarded with white tailed sea eagles, porpoise, common dolphin and numerous sea birds including puffin. Whilst ashore we saw otters, a heronry and red deer parading on the peaks. Craig our amusing steward demonstrated his artistry each evening with the menu board and serviette folding. He looked after our every need, wearing many different hats and jackets throughout the day to ensure the Elizabeth G was safe, clean and comfortable for guests. Our Chef Sally was awesome. A master with flavours, menus and working in a very confined space. 3 course breakfasts to set us up for the day, delicious and varied lunches, baked items for our return in the afternoon and amazing 4 course evening meals. How she managed to produce such brilliant food from a phone box is a mystery. Our crew were friendly, professional and skilled. There was a great atmosphere on board amongst crew and fellow passengers. We felt safe and relaxed as the crew worked to ensure that we each had a great holiday experience.
Sandy & Jane: 12 April 2025Idyllic Islands: Mull, Iona, Staffa & the Treshnish Isles