Description
The Shorewatch citizen science project is a network of volunteers trained and supported by WDC to carry out regular 10-minute surveys from Shorewatch sites across Scotland. We know that Scotland is home to a number of whale and dolphin species, yet there are still so many unanswered questions about where they breed, feed and travel. We believe it is important to keep eyes on the sea so we can better understand these amazing creatures to better protect them.
To become a Shorewatch volunteer, you will attend a full day training session where you will learn how to identify different species of cetacean, and how to carry out a 10-minute Shorewatch. You’ll then be fully supported by our Northern Isles Policy Officer in carrying out your first few watches from one of our selected sites – in Shetland these are Mousa Sound, Eshaness Lighthouse, Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, Lerwick (the Knab), Belmont (Unst), South Nesting Bay, Scatness (overlooking Quendale Bay), Burravoe (Yell) and Sandness. All of the equipment you need to carry out the 10-minute survey will be accessible at each site.
Understanding the movements of whales, dolphins and porpoises will allow us to comprehend how our behaviours affect them. We can use the data we gather to influence policy makers and advise developers to ensure better protection for whales and dolphins. Shorewatch relies on our amazing community volunteers to collect this vital data.
Organisation aims and objectives
Whale and Dolphin Conservation works to protect cetaceans around the globe. The charities main aims and objectives are to end captivity, stop whaling, to create healthy seas and to prevent deaths in nets. The Shorewatch citizen science project is a network of volunteers trained and supported by WDC to carry out regular 10-minute surveys from Shorewatch sites across Scotland. We know that Scotland is home to a number of whale and dolphin species, yet there are still so many unanswered questions about where they breed, feed and travel. We believe it is important to keep eyes on the sea so we can better understand these amazing creatures to better protect them. Understanding their movements will allow us to comprehend how our behaviours affect whales and dolphins. We can use the data we gather to influence policy makers and advise developers to ensure better protection for whales and dolphins. Shorewatch relies on our amazing community volunteers to collect this vital data. Objectives of Shorewatch • Bring marine conservation expertise to local communities through attending local events, informing campaigns and supporting volunteers. • Engage local people in the process of protecting and conserving the marine environment and the wellbeing of local whales and dolphins. • Inform conservationally minded marine planning by identifying specific seasons or locations of importance to suggest when development will have the least impact. • Contribute to the designation of MPAs by providing data to government as they search for key areas of importance. • Support monitoring of MPAs by collecting a long term data set which will show changes in the presence and absence of whales at key sites over time.
Frequency and commitment details
Shorewatch is flexible and can be carried out any time and day of the week.
Restrictions
Experience required: No prior experience or skills are necessary - full training is provided.
Travel details: In Shetland these are Mousa Sound, Eshaness Lighthouse, Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, Lerwick (the Knab), Belmont (Unst), South Nesting Bay, Scatness (overlooking Quendale Bay), Burravoe (Yell) and Sandness.
Minimum age: 18
Support
Expenses paid: Yes
Expenses details: There are some funds to assist volunteers with travel costs, to ensure we are reaching volunteers who are geographically isolated.
Taster available: Yes