Whale spotting training day 3/3/13
The Whale and Dolphin Conservation charity (WDC) is holding a Shorewatch training session at Stornoway Coastguard Station on Saturday.
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer to help record vital data about whales and dolphins within the Minch can sign up, come along, and receive expert training.
WDC (formerly WDCS) Shorewatch relies on community volunteers to monitor the presence of whales, dolphins and porpoises around Scotland.
The body is seeking volunteers to carry out regular 10-
WDC is particularly keen to find out more about the little known but easily identifiable Risso’s dolphins around Lewis.
By training up community volunteers they hope to extend WDC research by collecting vital sightings data all year round.
Janet Marshall, a dedicated WDC Shorewatcher said: “One of the nicest things about doing a Shorewatch is explaining what you are doing to other people, and sharing their excitement if there are whales or dolphins in the vicinity.
“Last summer I thought a Frenchwoman was going to burst with sheer excitement as
minke whales came very close to Tiumpan Head, we could hear them blow and call just
by the lighthouse. I also really enjoy doing the watches by myself -
In addition to learning how to identify whales and dolphins around the waters of Lewis, volunteers have the opportunity to learn how to recognise and report strandings, will receive the latest whale and dolphin related news and will also learn how best to raise awareness of the threats whales and dolphins face in Scotland today.
Kila Taylor, WDC Scottish conservation officer, said: “Shorewatch is a great opportunity to get actively involved in protecting whales and dolphins. You can watch whenever you feel like it – on the way to or from work, out with the dog or on a family walk at the weekend, so I encourage everyone to come along to the training day and help WDC collect this vital data.”
Booking for the training day is essential as places are limited -