Scotland is Home to the Dolphins
The Moray Firth is one of the most important areas in UK waters for dolphins, porpoises and whales (collectively known as cetaceans). The species most often seen from the shore are bottlenose dolphins and harbour porpoises. This has led to several locations around the coast becoming well known for "dolphin watching".
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Bottlenose Dolphins
"The thrill of watching bottlenose dolphins at play and the challenge of understanding their behaviour and social life make research on these animals uniquely rewarding. But if we are to ensure that our coastal waters remain home to dolphins we must also understand more about their ecological requirements and the threats which face them."
Dr Paul Thompson, Aberdeen University
- Bottlenose dolphins are sociable animals and usually live in groups of 2 to 4 individuals, although sightings of larger groups are not uncommon. In the Moray Firth school, 20 to 30 animals can sometimes be seen during the summer months. Some individuals can readily be identified by notches on the dorsal fin and patterns of scarring. They appear playful and can often be seen leaping out of the water.
- They typically live for 25 years, although animals as old as 50 years have been recorded. Females reach sexual maturity between the ages of 5 and 12, and may give birth to a single calf every 2 to 3 years - look out for newborn calves any time between March and September. The calf may be helped to the surface by its mother for its first breath of air. If the mother is weak, she may be assisted by other female dolphins in the school.
- Adults have a clearly defined beak and a tall, sickle-shaped dorsal fin which curves backwards. They are between 3.1 and 3.8 metres in length and weigh between 180 and 300 kilograms.
Visit the Moray Firth Dolphins
The dolphins can be seen all year round but the summer months are best.
As well as bottlenose dolphins you may also see seals and occasionally sightings of harbour
porpoises and minke whales in late summer.
There are a number of accredited wildlife cruise operators in the area and
sightings are also possible from land.
Further details are available from the Ross and Cromarty Tourist Office:
North Kessock
Black Isle
Ross-shire
IVI IXB
Tel: 01463 731505
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Scotland has lots of dolphins and whales. With the holidays fast approaching why not ask you parents or Father Christmas to adopt a Scottish Dolphin just for you. You will be helping the dolphins and Scotland all at the same time.
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You can find more articles in the archive under Special Place for Children.
Scottish Radiance
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