7/4/2004

Maybe it is their obvious intelligence or their flair for acrobatics that gives porpoises, dolphins and whales the ability to capture our imagination. Whatever the attraction, it’s clear that cetaceans, as they are collectively called, have the ability to thrill when we spot them along the Welsh coast.

Today, the Countryside Council for Wales publishes a new booklet on these animals to help people spot them and enjoy their playful acrobatics.

Four species are seen quite regularly around Wales– the harbour porpoise, bottlenose dolphin, common and Risso dolphins. The orca and minke whale are slightly rarer vistors. But they are all at home in the waters between Wales and Ireland, taking advantage of the rich food supply of sand-eel, mackerel, squid, octopus and sea bass.

Harbour porpoise - sometimes called the ‘puffing pig’ You can hear porpoises puffing from the shore, as they steal a breath at the surface of the sea. This is the smallest and by far the most common cetacean in Welsh waters.

Hot spots: Large congregations of harbour porpoises can be seen from the shore in the spring at Strumble Head in Pembrokeshire and Point Lynas on Anglesey. But they are usually seen individually or in groups of two or three, including a mother and calf pair.

Bottlenose dolphin – the most widely recognised dolphin species in the world, this dolphin is famous for its playful, gregarious nature and acrobatic displays. Stand on the shore and you may be lucky enough to witness the dolphin hunting, exhibiting high-speed surface chases and performing acrobatic displays, with fish being thrown up into the air as they feed and play.

Hot spots: One of the best places to see them is along the west coast between Cardigan and the Dyfi estuary, especially between April and September. The Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is on the seafront in New Quay, one of the most popular viewpoints. From there, boat operators offer marine wildlife tours.

Cardigan Bay is a marine Special Area of Conservation due to its importance throughout Europe as a home for this dolphin.

Common dolphin - the common dolphin has a slender and elegant body , covered with very distinct patterns. This is the fastest swimmer of all the dolphins, reaching speeds of over 25 mph. Their jumping and splashing can often be seen and heard at great distances.

Hot spots: More likely to be spotted from boats, although they can be seen from offshore islands like Bardsey and the Pembrokeshire islands, especially in the summer months.

Risso’s dolphin – one of the largest members of the dolphin family, reaching about four metres in length. The Risso has a square head, without a ‘beak’. Adults are covered in scratches and scars, though why is unclear.

Hot spots: The waters around Bardsey Island seem to be a particularly good habitat for Risso’s. They can also be seen off the Pembroekshire coast, between September and February.

Emily Dicks, CCW’s marine biodiversity liaison officer said: “Welsh waters are a haven for these charismatic mammals. They are an important ingredient in making the Welsh coast special, attracting millions of visitors every year and contributing nearly £600 million to the local economy (Wales Tourist Board).

“We have a responsibility to protect dolphins and porpoises from a range of threats such as pollution and disturbance to sustain one aspect of the natural beauty of the Welsh coast for the pleasure of local communities and visitors alike.”

It is an offence to recklessly or intentionally disturb cetaceans. If you see anyone harassing or recklessly disturbing them, please report it to the police.

There is a simple code to minimise disturbance to dolphins and porpoises, which includes the following advice:

* Fast vessels should gradually slow down to less than 6 knots and continue on their intended route;
* Let cetaceans approach you – never chase or touch them;
* Take extra care to avoid dolphins with young.

The booklet, ‘Dolphins, Porpoises and Whales in Welsh waters’ is available free of charge by contacting CCW’s enquiry unit on 0845 1306229.

Source:	Countryside Council for Wales
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