Marine Animals

Wild Porpoise Entanglement Bycatch

Harbour porpoises are frequently caught as bycatch in gillnets and other passive fishing gear, causing significant welfare harm and population pressure.

Key Facts

Harbour porpoise bycatch is the leading human-caused mortality in this species in UK waters
Porpoises drown in nets within minutes, but some may survive longer with significant distress
Acoustic deterrent devices (pingers) significantly reduce porpoise entanglement
Seasonal and area-based fishing restrictions protect key porpoise aggregations
Observer coverage of UK fisheries is insufficient to accurately quantify bycatch

Welfare Considerations

Porpoises entangled in gillnets experience acute fear and drowning distress before death. Mandatory pinger use and improved observer coverage are the two most evidence-based welfare interventions. Consumer choices supporting MSC-certified fisheries with pinger requirements incentivise welfare-positive fishing.

What You Can Do

Choose seafood from MSC-certified fisheries requiring pinger use
Support campaigns for mandatory observer coverage of UK fisheries
Advocate for expanded pinger requirements in gillnet fisheries