UK waters support diverse cetacean species including bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins, minke whales, and harbour porpoise, all affected by marine noise pollution from shipping, sonar, and offshore industry.
Key Facts
UK has 28 cetacean species in its waters, some year-round and others seasonal
Harbour porpoise is the most numerous UK cetacean with around 250,000 individuals
Seismic surveys, sonar, and pile driving cause significant cetacean welfare impacts
UK's Special Areas of Conservation protect key harbour porpoise and bottlenose dolphin sites
Strandings are monitored by CSIP providing welfare and health data on UK cetaceans
Welfare Considerations
Cetacean welfare in UK waters requires reduction of marine noise, protection of key habitat areas, reduction of fishing gear entanglement, and monitoring. Mass strandings often reflect military sonar exposure. The welfare implications of chronic noise exposure for cetaceans are severe and long-lasting.
What You Can Do
Support British Divers Marine Life Rescue cetacean rescue capability
Advocate for marine noise reduction regulations for shipping and industrial activity
Report cetacean strandings and welfare concerns to BDMLR immediately