One of Europe's leading whale and dolphin charities, ORCA, is offering people the opportunity to join their team of wildlife surveyors in collecting vital information about whales and dolphins. Our unique, participative volunteer scheme enables members of the public to collect scientific data about whales, dolphins and porpoises (cetaceans). This gives you the opportunity to contribute directly to vital conservation work. By enabling this innovative link to be made between people and marine mammals, ORCA can inspire, educate and enthuse the wider public about the conservation and biodiversity of cetaceans. This certificated, fun and illuminating course will give you all of the skills required to competently identify cetaceans at sea and take part in ORCA's scientifically recognised surveys. http://www.orcaweb.org.uk/get-involved/train ORCA will be holding a one day Marine Mammal Surveyor training courses around the UK where delegates can learn how to identify different species as well as understand how to record sightings in line with ORCA's survey protocol. The dates of the courses are: Date Location Time Course Status Friday 7th November University of Derby 9.30am- 4.30pm Places available Saturday 15th November Marine Biological Association, Citadel Hill, Plymouth 9.30am-4.30pm Places available Sunday 23rd November Cornwall College, Newquay 9.30am-4.30pm Places available Saturday 29th November Great North Museum: Hancock, Newcastle 9.30am-4.30pm Places available Sunday 30th November University of Bangor, Room A12, ground floor, Brambell Building, Adeilad Deiniol, Deiniol Rd Bangor Gwynedd LL57 2UX. 9.30am-4.30pm Places available ORCA's MMS training course incorporates theoretical and practical training on marine mammal identification, organising and completing line-transect surveys as part of a team. With an international network of research vessels, ferries and cruise ships donating spaces to ORCA volunteers, this is a fantastic opportunity for you to participate in future whale and dolphin surveys. Over 30% of the global diversity of cetaceans are seen in our waters. These creatures range from the diminutive harbour porpoise to the mighty blue whale, the largest animal that ever lived! Why complete the MMS training course? ORCA relies on a large and dedicated team of volunteer observers to carry out its research, but to achieve the standard required we request that they first complete an ORCA MMS training course. In return, ORCA provides its volunteers with a wide range of opportunities to take part in our surveys, experience life at sea, encounter whales and dolphins as well as gain a greater understanding of ocean ecosystems and the threats to marine life. But, even if you don't plan to get involved with ORCA in the long-term this training course is designed as an excellent introduction to conducting wildlife surveys that are of scientific value and improve your species identification skills. Further details Please follow the 'More information' link below for further information on dates and course venues Cost: £60 per person, £54 concessions (students, seniors, unemployed). Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable http://www.orcaweb.org.uk/get-involved/train Catherine Bowley Supporter Development & Admin Manager ORCA Tel: 023 9283 2565 Email: catherine.bowley@orcaweb.org.uk<mailto:catherine.bowley@orcaweb.org.uk> Web: www.orcaweb.org.uk<http://www.orcaweb.org.uk/> [Facebook logo]<https://www.facebook.com/pages/ORCA/190122761022671>[Twitter bird]<https://twitter.com/intent/user?original_referer=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.orcaweb.org.uk%2Fget-involved%2Ftrain%2F®ion=following&screen_name=orca_web&tw_p=followbutton&variant=2.0> I am running the Great South Run 2014. Donate to ORCA via my JustGiving page www.justgiving.com/Catherine-Bowley [Double-Your-Money-eNews-headers]<http://www.giveasyoulive.com/join/orca>
