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
Web: www.orcaweb.org.uk
I am running the Great South Run 2014. Donate to ORCA via my JustGiving page www.justgiving.com/Catherine-Bowley
