Final Call for participation in 2016 Cetacean Research Survey in the Hebrides

 

Dear All,

 

The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust (HWDT) conduct cetacean monitoring surveys throughout our field season (April – Oct) from aboard our fully-equipped research yacht, Silurian. Survey length ranges between 7 – 12 days, living aboard Silurian for the duration. 

 

Every year we welcome aboard enthusiastic volunteers who are willing to contribute directly to our research work.  Volunteers, in effect, become marine mammal scientists for the duration of the survey; living and working aboard Silurian, assisting with day-to-day running, as well as working together as a team to carry out visual and acoustic surveys.  To find out more about the research on board please follow this link. 

 

We have produced a short a short video about joining us aboard; please CLICK HERE to watch it.

 

Volunteers will assist fully in the collection of data, with full training provided.  Acoustic and visual methods are combined to produce comprehensive data sets. During encounters photographs are taken of dorsal fins to try and identify the individual, gaining a better understanding of species movements and interactions with each other.

 

The data collected is essential when monitoring the distribution, relative abundance and habitat preference of cetacean species in the Hebrides. Only with coherent data can effective conservation and management strategies be designed to enable long-term protection of the variety of species found in Hebridean waters.

 

As a volunteer aboard Silurian, you will have the opportunity to see first-hand the amazing variety of marine wildlife the UK has to offer including whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals, sharks and seabirds. You will explore some of the remotest, wildest parts of the British Isles - anchoring each night in a different bay off one of the many Hebridean islands, venturing ashore to explore if you wish.  The opportunity to gain sailing experience is also available, although no certificates are issued.

 

Rendezvous location is either in Tobermory (on the Isle of Mull - where HWDT is based), Kyle of Lochalsh or Ullapool.  More information on specific surveys will be provided on request. There is a monetary value attached to participating which includes accommodation (aboard) and food throughout the expedition.  The income generated allows HWDT to continue this well established monitoring programme, you can be assured that without your contribution our research couldn't be undertaken. 

Please note that we offer a 10% student discount.

 

2016 Survey dates, rendezvous and cost:

Survey berths are filling up quickly so please enquire now to avoid disappointment.

For more information about the expeditions and how to join, please CLICK HERE.

Otherwise, contact HWDT’s volunteer coordinator Morven Russell:

Email: volunteercoordinator@hwdt.org

Tel: 01688 302620

 

Thank you, and hope to see you aboard this season!

Morven Russell
Volunteer Coordinator
Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust
28 Main Street
Tobermory
Isle of Mull
PA75 6NU

Tel: 01688 302620
volunteercoordinator@hwdt.org

www.hwdt.org

Please note my standard working days are Monday - Wednesday

The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust is dedicated to enhancing knowledge and understanding of Scotland’s whales, dolphins and porpoises (cetaceans) and the Hebridean marine environment through education, research and working within Hebridean communities as a basis for the lasting conservation of local species and habitats.