HWDT Cetacean Research Surveys in The Hebrides, Scotland- Volunteers Required Dear All, The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust (HWDT) conducts cetacean surveys throughout our field season (May - October) from aboard our research yacht <http://www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk/research-Silurian.asp> Silurian. 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 onboard please click here <http://www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk/research-on-silurian.asp> . Volunteers will assist fully in the collection of data, with mega-fauna and sea bird identification 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, and subsequent information produced 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 amazing species found in our waters. As a volunteer onboard 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 secluded bay off one of the many Hebridean islands, venturing ashore to explore. 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 or in Kyle of Lochalsh. More information on specific surveys will be provided on request. There is a monetary value attached to participating, costs vary between £900 - £1,300 - this includes accommodation (aboard) and food throughout the duration. The income generated allows HWDT to continue this well established research programme, you can be assured that without your contribution the research couldn't be undertaken. 2014 Available Survey Dates: * 17th - 28th May - Spaces Available * 24th June - 5th July- Start at Kyle of Lochalsh- Almost Full * 8th July - 19th July - Spaces Available * 1st - 12th September - Spaces Available * 22nd - 30th September - Spaces Available * 8th- 16th October- Joint Warrior Survey ( <http://www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk/stand_alone.asp?page=militarysurvey.asp> Joint Warrior military exercise off western Scotland) - Spaces Available For more information on the joint warrior survey, please see: http://www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk/stand_alone.asp?page=militarysurvey.asp For further information about our surveys please go online to: http://www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk/get-involved-join-us-onboard.asp For Further information about HWDT please go online to: www.hwdt.org Or contact HWDT’s volunteer coordinator Mark Whitaker: Email: volunteercoordinator@hwdt.org Telephone: 01688 302620 Thank you, and hope to see you onboard this season! Kerry Froud ----- Marine Biodiversity Officer Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust Clydesdale Bank Buildings Tobermory Isle of Mull PA75 6NU Tel: 01688 302620 biodiversityofficer@hwdt.org www.hwdt.org <http://www.hwdt.org/> ----- 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.