Hello all, *FINAL CALL FOR 2019 FIELD SEASON VOLUNTEERS* The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust (HWDT) conducts cetacean survey expeditions off the west coast of Scotland throughout our field season (April - October) from aboard our research yacht, Silurian. More than a quarter of the world’s whale, dolphin and porpoise species have been recorded in Hebridean seas, making this an area of global importance for cetaceans. However, our seas are under huge pressure; increasingly busy, noisy and polluted. Scotland’s whales and dolphins exist in a fragile state, threatened by a range of environmental, climatic and man-made stresses. 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. This live-aboard experience is like no other in the UK! To find out more about the research projects we facilitate, please CLICK HERE <https://hwdt.org/research-projects-1> . Volunteers will assist fully in the collection of data, with mega-fauna and sea bird identification training provided. Both acoustic and visual methods are combined to produce comprehensive data sets. During encounters photographs are taken of dorsal fins to undertake Photo Identification analysis. We also deploy laser photogrammetry equipment to measure the length of minke whales – helping to determine numbers of young whales, assess body conditions for parasites such as sea lice, and classify marks and scars from interactions with marine plastic and fishing gear. 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. To read more about what we have learnt from 15 years of monitoring on the west coast of Scotland, check out the first part of our Hebridean Marine Mammal Atlas series by CLICKING HERE. Details of remaining 2019 Expedition Surveys: · 27th Aug – 7th Sept (12 days), rendezvous in Kyle of Lochalsh – where the Isle of Skye bridge meets the mainland – cost is £942.50 (35% off!) · 15th – 23rd Sept (9 days), rendezvous in Kyle of Lochalsh, cost is £937.50 (25% off!) · 28th Sept – 4th Oct, rendezvous in Tobermory, cost is £950 · 5th – 11th Oct, rendezvous is in Tobermory, this expedition survey is scheduled to coincide with the massive Joint Warrior military exercise, cost is £950 More information on specific surveys will be provided on completion of a booking form. There is a monetary value attached to participating which 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. As a volunteer on board Silurian, you will have the opportunity to see first-hand the amazing variety of marine wildlife Scotland 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. For an idea of a standard survey, please check out our latest expedition update by CLICKING HERE <https://hwdt.org/news/surveysummary07> . If you are interested in participating in an expedition survey or have any questions, please complete a basic booking form <https://hwdt.org/booking> , contact me on volunteercoordinator@hwdt.org <mailto:volunteercoordinator@hwdt.org> , or call 01688 302620 and chat to one of the team. Morven Summers Media and Communications Officer Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust +44 (0)1688 302620 | <http://www.hwdt.org/> hwdt.org My standard working week is Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 9am – 1pm <https://www.facebook.com/HWDT.org/> Facebook | <https://twitter.com/HWDT_org> Twitter | <https://www.instagram.com/hwdt_org/> Instagram