Research Index
Publications
Since 1990, the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust, and its predecessor the Mull Cetacean Project, has been conducting research into whales, dolphins and porpoises found in Hebridean waters. A range of issues have been tackled including the biology, ecology and behaviour of cetaceans, ecotourism, conservation issues, and public perceptions.
A number of reports, papers and conference abstracts have been produced. Some have links to downloadable PDF versions. Please browse the list below to find out more about the research and work that HWDT has undertaken.
Please note that reports and papers are the product and copyright of their respective authors. Conclusions and opinions contained therein do not necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of HWDT.
Fundraising Ideas
Fundraising Ideas
Fundraising Ideas for Volunteers!Working your socks off is one way to raise funds for your Silurian survey, however as proceeds go directly into funding our charity's vital research, you can also fundraise for your position.
Here are a few ideas to get you started...
Annual Reports
HWDT Annual Report 2014
HWDT Annual Report 2013
Scientific Publications
Genetic differentiation among North Atlantic killer whale populations
Foote, A.D., Vilstrup, J.T., de Stephanis, R., Verborgh, P. et al (2011) Genetic differentiation among North Atlantic killer whale populations. Molecular Ecology, 20:629–641. (282 KB)
Using habitat models to identify suitable sites for marine protected areas for harbour porpoises
Embling, C.B., Gillibrand, P. A., Gordon, J., Shrimpton, J., Stevick, P.S. and Hammond, P.S. (2010) Using habitat models to identify suitable sites for marine protected areas for harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena). Biological Conservation, 143(2): 267-279. (2 MB)
Complete mitochondrial genome phylogeographic analysis of killer whales indicates multiple species
Morin, P.A., Archer, F.I., Foote, A.D., Vilstrup, J., Allen, E.E., Wade, P., Durban, J., Parsons, K., Pitman, R., Li, L., Bouffard, P., Abel Nielsen, S.C., Rasmussen, M., Willerslev,E., Gilbert , M.T.P. and Harkins, T. (2010) Complete mitochondrial genome phylogeographic analysis of killer whales (Orcinus orca) indicates multiple species. Genome Research, 20: 908-916. (530 KB)
A note on the unprecedented strandings of 56 deep-diving whales along the UK and Irish coasts
Sarah J. Dolman, Eunice Pinn, Robert J. Reid, Jason P. Barley, Rob Deaville, Paul D. Jepson, Mick O'Connel, Simon Berrow, Rod S. Penrose, Peter T. Stevick, Susannah V. Calderan, Kevin P. Robinson, Robert L. Brownell JR and Mark Simmonds, 2010. A note on the unprecented strandings of 56 deep-diving whales along the UK and Irish coasts. Marine Biodiversity Records 3: 1-8 (248 KB)
Fine-scale habitat selection by white-beaked and common dolphins in the Minch: evidence for interspecific competition or coexistence?
Weir, C.R., MacLeod, C.D., and Calderan, S.V. (2009) Fine-scale habitat selection by white-beaked and common dolphins in the Minch (Scotland, UK): evidence for interspecific competition or coexistence? Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom 89 (5): 951-960. (444 KB)
Ecological, morphological and genetic divergence of sympatric North Atlantic killer whale populations
Foote, A.D., Newton, J., Piertney, S.B., Willerslev, E., and Gilbert, M.T. (2009) Ecological, morphological and genetic divergence of sympatric North Atlantic killer whale populations. Molecular Ecology, 18 (24): 5207-5217. (414 KB)
Movement, site fidelity and connectivity in a top marine predator, the killer whale
Andrew D. Foote, Tiu Simila, Gisli A. Vikingsson, Peter T. Stevick, 2009. Movement, site fidelity and connectivity in a top marine predator, the killer whale. Evolutionary Ecology (391 KB)
Occurrence of killer whales in Scottish inshore waters: temporal and spatial patterns relative to the distribution of declining harbour seal populations
Bolt, H.E., Harvey, P.V., Mandleberg, L. and Foote, A. 2009. Occurrence of killer whales in Scottish inshore waters: temporal and spatial patterns relative to the distribution of declining harbour seal populations. Aquatic Conservation: Marine & Freshwater Ecosytems 19: 671-675 (186KB)
Integrating multiple data sources to assess the distribution and abundance of bottlenose dolphins Tursiops truncatus in Scottish waters
Cheney, B. et al. 2013. Integrating multiple data sources to assess the distribution and abundance of bottlenose dolphins Tursiops truncatus in Scottish waters. Mammal Review 43: 71-88 (993KB)
A comparison of approaches for modelling the occurrence of marine animals
MacLeod, C.D., Mandleberg, L., Schweder, C., Bannon, S.M. and Pierce, G.J. 2008. A comparison of approaches for modelling the occurrence of marine animals. Hydrobiologia 612: 21-32. (439KB)
Population spatial structuring on the feeding grounds in North Atlantic humpback whales
Stevick P.T, Allen J, Clapham P.J, Katona S.K, Larsen F, Lien J, Mattila D.K, Palsboll P.J, Sears R, Sigurjonsson J, Smith T.D, Vikingsson, Oien N, Hammond P.S. 2006. Population spatial structuring on the feeding grounds in North Atlantic humpback whales (Megaptera novaengliae). Journal of Zoology 270, 244 - 255. (46KB Abstract Only)
Seasonal distribution of minke whales in relation to physiography and prey off the Isle of Mull
Macleod, K., Fairbairns, R., Gill, A., Fairbairns, B., Gordon, J., Blair-Myers, C., and Parsons, E.C.M. 2004. Seasonal distribution of minke whales Balaenoptera acutorostrata in relation to physiography and prey off the Isle of Mull, Scotland. Marine Ecology Progress Series. 277: 263 - 274. (674KB)
Spatial distribution patterns of basking sharks on the European shelf
Southall, E.J., Sims, D.W., Metcalfe, J.D., Doyle, J.I., Fanshawe, S., Lacey, C., Shrimpton, J., Solandt, J-L. and Speedie, C. D. (2005) Spatial distribution patterns of basking sharks on the European shelf: preliminary comparison of satellite-tag geolocation, survey and public sightings data. Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the UK 85: 1083 - 1088. (737KB)
The use of sound by cetaceans
Parsons, E.C.M. and Dolman, S. 2003. The use of sound by cetaceans. Pages 44-52 in: Oceans of Noise (ed. M. Simmonds, S. Dolman & L. Weilgart). Whale & Dolphin Conservation Society, Chippenham. 165 pp. (1.3MB)
Noise as a problem for cetaceans
Parsons, E.C.M. and Dolman, S. 2003. Noise as a problem for cetaceans. Pages 53-61 in: Oceans of Noise (ed. M. Simmonds, S. Dolman & L. Weilgart). Whale & Dolphin Conservation Society, Chippenham. 165 pp. (1.3MB)
Sources of marine noise
Parsons, E.C.M., Swift, R. and Dolman, S. 2003. Sources of marine noise. Pages 24-43 in: Oceans of Noise (ed. M. Simmonds, S. Dolman & L. Weilgart). Whale & Dolphin Conservation Society, Chippenham. 165 pp.
The value of conserving whales: the impacts of whale-watching on the economy of rural West Scotland
Parsons, E.C.M., Warburton, C.A., Woods-Ballard, A., Hughes, A. and Johnston, P. 2003. The value of conserving whales: the impacts of whale-watching on the economy of rural West Scotland. Aquatic Conservation 13: 397 - 415. (215KB)
Whale watching tourists in west Scotland
Parsons, E.C.M., Warburton, C.A., Woods-Ballard, A., Hughes, A. and Johnston, P., Bates., H and Luck, M., 2003. Whale watching Tourists in West Scotland. Journal of Ecotourism 2: 40-55. (315KB)
The sustainability of whale-watching in Scotland
Woods-Ballard, A., Parsons, E.C.M., Hughes, A.J., Velander, K.A., Ladle, R.J. and Warburton, C.A., 2003. The sustainability of whale-watching in Scotland. Journal of Sustainable Tourism 11: 40-55.
Effects of diel and seasonal cycles on the dive duration of the minke whale
Stockin, K.A., Fairbairns, R.S., Parsons, E.C.M. and Sims, D.W. 2001. Effects of diel and seasonal cycles on the dive duration of the minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata). Journal of the Marine Biological Association 81: 189-190. (65KB)
Quantitative analysis of tonal calls from five odontocete species, examining interspecific and intraspecific variation
Rendell, L.E., Matthews, J.N., Gill, A., Gordon, J.C.D. and Macdonald, D.W. 1999. Quantitative analysis of tonal calls from five odontocete species, examining interspecific and intraspecific variation. Journal of Zoology 249: 403-410. (15KB Abstract only)
A survey of whales and dolphins in Hebridean waters
Evans, P.G.H., Lewis, E.J., Parsons, E.C.M. and Swann, C. 1993. A survey of whales and dolphins in Hebridean waters. Oxford: Seawatch Foundation.
International Whaling Commission Submissions
A preliminary note on the unprecedented strandings of 45 deep-diving odontocetes along the UK and Irish coast between January and April 2008.
Dolman, S.J., Reid, R.J., Barley, J.P., Deaville, R., Jepson, P.D., O’Connell, M., Berrow, S., Penrose, R.S., Pinn, E., Stevick, P.T., Calderan, S., Robinson, K.P., Doyle, T.K., Brownell, R.L., and Simmonds, M.P. A preliminary note on the unprecedented strandings of 45 deep-diving odontocetes along the UK and Irish coast between January and April 2008. Document SC/60/E5 submitted to the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission. 60th Annual Meeting, 23-27 June, 2008, Santiago, Chile.
Quantifying rates of inter-area movement using capture-recapture results: a comparison of methods.
Stevick, P.T. 2008. Quantifying rates of inter-area movement using capture-recapture results: a comparison of methods. Document SC/60/SD7 submitted to the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission. 60th Annual Meeting, 23-27 June, 2008, Santiago, Chile.
Distribution and abundance of killer whales in the North East Atlantic.
Foote, A.D., Víkingsson, G., Øien, N., Bloch, D., Davis, C.G., Dunn, T.E., Harvey, P., Mandleberg, L., Whooley, P., and Thompson, P.M. Distribution and abundance of killer whales in the North East Atlantic. Document SC/59/SM5 submitted to the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission. 59th Annual Meeting, 28-31 May, 2007, Anchorage, Alaska, USA.
Noise sources in the cetacean environment.
Dolman, S.J., Parsons, E.C.M. and Simmonds, M.P. 2002. Noise sources in the cetacean environment. Paper presented to the Scientific Committee at the 54th Meeting of the International Whaling Commission, 26 April–10 May 2002, Shimonoseki, Japan. SC54/E7.
A review of sewage pollution in Scotland and its potential impacts on harbour porpoise populations.
Grillo, V., Parsons, E.C.M. and Shrimpton, J.H. 2001. A review of sewage pollution in Scotland and its potential impacts on harbour porpoise populations. Paper presented to the Scientific Committee at the 53nd Meeting of the International Whaling Commission, 3-16 July 2001, London. SC53/E13.
Voluntary whale-watching codes of conduct: how effective are they in managing whale-watching in West Scotland?
Parsons, E.C.M. and Woods-Ballard, A. 2001. Voluntary whale-watching codes of conduct: how effective are they in managing whale-watching in West Scotland? Paper presented to the Scientific Committee at the 53nd Meeting of the International Whaling Commission, 3-16 July 2001, London. SC53/WW6.
The sustainability of whale-watching in Scotland.
Woods-Ballard, A., Hughes, A.J., Parsons, E.C.M., Warburton, C.A., Velander, K.A. and Ladle, R.J. 2001. The sustainability of whale-watching in Scotland. Paper presented to the Scientific Committee at the 53nd Meeting of the International Whaling Commission, 3-16 July 2001, London. SC53/WW5.
A review of environmental threats to cetaceans in West Scotland.
Shrimpton, J.H. and Parsons E.C.M. 2000. A review of environmental threats to cetaceans in West Scotland. Paper presented to the Scientific Committee at the 52nd Meeting of the International Whaling Commission, 11-28 June 2000, Australia. SC52/E24.
A note on the effects of diel and seasonal cycles on the dive duration of the minke whale off the Isle of Mull, Scotland.
Stockin, K., Fairbairns, R.S., Parsons, E.C.M. and Sims, D. 2000. A note on the effects of diel and seasonal cycles on the dive duration of the minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) off the Isle of Mull, Scotland. Paper presented to the Scientific Committee at the 52nd Meeting of the International Whaling Commission, 11-28 June 2000, Australia. SC52/O25.
Marine Wildlife tourism and whale-watching on the Isle of Mull, Scotland.
Warburton, C.A., Parsons, E.C.M. and Goodwin, H. 2000. Marine Wildlife tourism and whale-watching on the Isle of Mull, Scotland. Paper presented to the Scientific Committee at the 52nd Meeting of the International Whaling Commission, 11-28 June 2000, Australia. SC52/WW17. (176KB)
Analysis of data collected from a whalewatching operation to assess relative abundance and distribution of the minke whale around the Isle of Mull
Leaper, R., Fairbairns, R., Gordon, J., Hiby, A., Lovell, P. and Papastavrou, V. 1997. Analysis of data collected from a whalewatching operation to assess relative abundance and distribution of the minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) around the Isle of Mull, Scotland. Reports of the International Whaling Commission 47: 505-511.
Conference Abstracts And Proceedings
Coast to Coast: First evidence for the translocational movements by Scottish dolphins (UK)
Robinson, K.P., Cheney, B., Mandleberg, L., Eisfeld, S.M., Costa, M., Johnston, P., Stevick, P.T. Coast to Coast: First evidence for the translocational movements by Scottish dolphins (UK). Poster for 23rd Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, Istanbul, Turkey, 2009.
Estimating killer whale predation levels on Shetland harbour seals.
Bolt H.E., Harvey, P.V., Thompson, P.M. and Foote, A.D. Estimating killer whale predation levels on Shetland harbour seals. Poster for 22nd Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, Egmont Aan Zee, The Netherlands 2008.
Inter-annual differences in harbour porpoise distribution on the west coast of Scotland.
Booth, C.G., Embling, C.B., Stevick, P.T., Gillespie, D., Gordon, J. and Hammond, P.S. Inter-annual differences in harbour porpoise distribution on the west coast of Scotland. Talk for 22nd Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, Egmont Aan Zee, The Netherlands 2008.
White-beaked dolphin occurrence in the Minch during August 2007.
Weir, C.R., Calderan, S.V.,Unwin, M., Pitman, R.L., Booth, C.G., Photopoulos, T. and Robinson, K.P. White-beaked dolphin (Lagenorhynchus acutus) occurrence in the Minch (Scotland, UK) during August 2007. Poster for 22nd Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, Egmont Aan Zee, The Netherlands 2008.
Estimates of movement and site fidelity of North Atlantic killer whales using opportunistic individual identifications.
Foote, A.D., Simila, T., Vikingsson, G. and Stevick, P.T. Estimates of movement and site fidelity of North Atlantic killer whales using opportunistic individual identifications. Poster for 22nd Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, Egmont Aan Zee, The Netherlands 2008
Cetacean diversity in north west Scotland: an oceanographic perspective.
Mandleberg, L.C., Calderan, S.V., Stevick, P.T., Embling, C.B., Shrimpton, J. and Booth, C.G. Cetacean diversity in north west Scotland: an oceanographic perspective. Poster for 22nd Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, Egmont Aan Zee, The Netherlands 2008.
An Integrated approach to non-lethal research on minke whales in European waters.
An Integrated approach to non-lethal research on minke whales in European waters. A workshop held at the 21st Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, San Sebastian, Spain, 2007.
Using environmental models to predict harbour porpoise distribution and relative abundance from visual and acoustic survey data.
Embling, C.B., Gordon, J., Shrimpton, J., Hammond, P.S. Using environmental models to predict harbour porpoise distribution and relative abundance from visual and acoustic survey data. Talk for 21st Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, San Sebastian, Spain 2007.
Density estimates of marine litter in a key cetacean habitat in North West Scotland'.
Calderan, S.V., Stevick, P.T., Mandleberg, L.C. Density estimates of marine litter in a key cetacean habitat in North West Scotland'. Poster for 21st Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, San Sebastian, Spain 2007.
A trophic shift off West Scotland: minke whales and basking sharks.
Stevick, P.T., Calderan, S.V., Speedie, C., Shrimpton, J., Embling, C.B. A trophic shift off West Scotland: minke whales and basking sharks. Poster for 21st Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, San Sebastián, Spain, 2007.
Characteristics of the bottlenose dolphin population off the west coast of Scotland.
Mandleberg, L.C., Stevick, P.T., Tetley, M.J., Gaillard, T., Johnston, P.J. Characteristics of the bottlenose dolphin population off the west coast of Scotland. Poster for 21st Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, San Sebastián, Spain, 2007.
Distribution and abundance of bottlenose dolphins off the West Coast of Scotland.
Ingram, S.N., Culloch, R., Cheney, B., Mandleberg, L.C., Stevick, P.T., Hammond, P.S., Wilson, B., Thompson, P.N. Distribution and abundance of bottlenose dolphins off the West Coast of Scotland. Poster for 21st Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, San Sebastián, Spain, 2007.
Proceedings of the workshop An integrated approach to non-lethal research on minke whales in European waters
Robinson, K P, Stevick, P T and MacLeod, C D (eds). 2007. Proceedings of the workshop An integrated approach to non-lethal research on minke whales in European waters. Held at the 21st Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, San Sebastian, Spain, 2007. ECS Special Publication Series No 47. (1.9MB)
Evidence for changes in minke whale prey off Scotland: Why collaboration matters
Stevick, P T. 2007. Evidence for changes in minke whale prey off Scotland: Why collaboration matters. pp 42-47 in Robinson, K P, Stevick, P T and MacLeod, C D (eds). Proceedings of the workshop An integrated approach to non-lethal research on minke whales in European waters. Held at the 21st Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, San Sebastian, Spain, 2007. ECS Special Publication Series No 47. (1.86MB)
The distribution of killer whales in West Scotland and movements of identified individuals.
Dell, C., Parsons, E.C.M. and Evans, P.G.H. 2002. The distribution of killer whales (Orcinus orca) in West Scotland and movements of identified individuals. European Research on Cetaceans 16. (ed. P.G.H. Evans). Liege: European Cetacean Society. (Abstract)
Investigations into the relationship between pelagic fish and dolphin distributions off the west coast of Scotland
Embling, C.B., Fernandes, P.G., Hammond, P.S., Armstrong, E., Gordon, J.G. (2005). Investigations into the relationship between pelagic fish and dolphin distributions off the west coast of Scotland. ICES ASC 2005 Theme Session R: Marine Mammals. Paper CM 2005/R:08. (564KB)
The impact of whale-watching on the economy of West Scotland.
Parsons E.C.M., Warburton, C.A., Woods-Ballard, A., Hughes, A. and Johnston, P. 2001. The impact of whale-watching on the economy of West Scotland. Presented at the 14th Biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals, 28 November - 3 December 2001, Vancouver, Canada.
Whale-watchers in West Scotland.
Warburton, C.A., Parsons E.C.M., Woods-Ballard, A., Hughes, A. and Johnston, P. 2001. Whale-watchers in West Scotland. Presented at the 14th Biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals, 28 November - 3 December 2001, Vancouver, Canada.
Bottlenose dolphins in West Scotland.
Soole, C., Gill, A., Johnston, P., Kuiker, K. and Parsons, E.C.M. 2001. Bottlenose dolphins in West Scotland. European Research on Cetaceans 15. (ed. P.G.H. Evans). Rome: European Cetacean Society. (Abstract)
Marine wildlife tourism and the economic benefits to island communities.
Parsons E.C.M. and Warburton, C.A. 2000. Marine wildlife tourism and the economic benefits to island communities. Presented at the 6th Islands of the World Conference, 16-20 October 2000, Isle of Skye, Scotland.
Photographic and strandings data highlighting the problem of marine debris and creel rope entanglement to minke whales and other marine life in Scottish waters
Gill, A., Reid, R.J. and Fairbairns, B.R. 2000. Photographic and strandings data highlighting the problem of marine debris and creel rope entanglement to minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) and other marine life in Scottish waters. European Research on Cetaceans 14 (ed. P.G.H. Evans, R. Pitt-Aiken & E. Rogan), pp. 173-178. Cork: European Cetacean Society.
The possible impacts of military activity on cetaceans in West Scotland
Parsons, E.C.M., Birks, I., Evans, P.G.H., Gordon, J.G., Shrimpton, J.H. and Pooley, S. 2000. The possible impacts of military activity on cetaceans in West Scotland. European Research on Cetaceans 14. (ed. P.G.H. Evans, R. Pitt-Aiken & E. Rogan), pp. 185-190. Cork: European Cetacean Society. (222KB)
Cetacean sighting distribution in West Scotland in 1999.
Barry, S., Parsons, E.C.M., McNee, J., McClellan, R., Evans, P.G.H., and McClellan, L. 2000. Cetacean sighting distribution in West Scotland in 1999. European Research on Cetaceans 14. (ed. P.G.H. Evans, R. Pitt-Aiken & E. Rogan), p. 355. Cork: European Cetacean Society. (Abstract)
Cetacean conservation in Northwest Scotland: perceived threats to cetaceans
Parsons, E.C.M., Shrimpton, J. and Evans, P.G.H. 1999. Cetacean conservation in Northwest Scotland: perceived threats to cetaceans. European Research on Cetaceans 13. (ed. P.G.H. Evans, J. Cruz & J.A. Raga), pp. 128-133. Valencia: European Cetacean Society. (47KB)
Comparison between Risso' s dolphin vocal behaviour in Scottish waters and in the Mediterranean Sea
Benoldi, C., Gill, A., Evans, P.G.H., Manghi, M., Pavan, G. and Priano, M. 1999. Comparison between Risso' s dolphin vocal behaviour in Scottish waters and in the Mediterranean Sea. European Research on Cetaceans 12 (ed. P.G.H. Evans & E.C.M. Parsons), pp. 109-111. Valencia: European Cetacean Society.
European Research on Cetaceans
Evans, P.G.H. and Parsons, E.C.M. (Eds.). 1999. European Research on Cetaceans 12. Valencia: European Cetacean Society. 436pp
Operation sightings: sightings of cetaceans in the southern Hebrides
Jeewoonarain, T., Parsons, E.C.M. and Evans, P.G.H. 1999. Operation sightings: sightings of cetaceans in the southern Hebrides, Scotland. European Research on Cetaceans 13. (ed. P.G.H. Evans, J. Cruz & J.A. Raga), pp. 237-241. Valencia: European Cetacean Society. (585KB)
Some observations of minke whale feeding behaviour and associations with seabirds in the coastal waters of the Isle of Mull
Gill, A., Fairbairns, B.R. and Fairbairns, R.S. 1999. Some observations of minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) feeding behaviour and associations with seabirds in the coastal waters of the Isle of Mull, Scotland. European Research on Cetaceans 13 (ed. P.G.H. Evans, J. Cruz & J.A. Raga), pp. 61-64. Valencia: European Cetacean Society. (26KB)
A photo-identification study of Risso's dolphins in the coastal waters of the Eye Peninsula, Isle of Lewis, Scotland.
Atkinson, T., Gill, A. and Evans, P.G.H. 1998. A photo-identification study of Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus) in the coastal waters of the Eye Peninsula, Isle of Lewis, Scotland. European Research on Cetaceans 11 (ed. P.G.H. Evans, E.C.M. Parsons & S.L. Clark), p. 170. Kiel: European Cetacean Society. (Abstract)
Notes on the natural markings on Risso's dolphins photographed in the coastal waters of the Eye Peninsula, Isle of Lewis, Scotland.
Atkinson, T., Gill, A. and Evans, P.G.H. 1998. Notes on the natural markings on Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus) photographed in the coastal waters of the Eye Peninsula, Isle of Lewis, Scotland. European Research on Cetaceans 11 (ed. P.G.H. Evans, E.C.M. Parsons & S.L. Clark), p. 209. Kiel: European Cetacean Society. (Abstract)
European Research on Cetaceans
Evans, P.G.H., Parsons, E.C.M. and Clark, S.L. (Eds.). 1998. European Research on Cetaceans 11. Kiel: European Cetacean Society.
Feasibility study using sonobuoys to study cetacean acoustic behaviour in the coastal waters of the Inner Hebrides, Scotland.
Swift, R. and Menhenett, C. 1997. Feasibility study using sonobuoys to study cetacean acoustic behaviour in the coastal waters of the Inner Hebrides, Scotland. European Research on Cetaceans 10 (ed. P.G.H. Evans), p. 76. Kiel: European Cetacean Society. (Abstract)
Background and recent achievements of Sealife Surveys and the creation of the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust.
Fairbairns, R. 1996. Background and recent achievements of Sealife Surveys and the creation of the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust. European Research on Cetaceans 9 (ed. P.G.H. Evans & H. Nice), p. 125. Kiel: European Cetacean Society. (Abstract)
Cetacean sightings off the east coast of the Isle of Lewis
Gill, A., Atkinson, T. and Evans, P.G.H. 1997. Cetacean sightings off the east coast of the Isle of Lewis, Scotland. European Research on Cetaceans 11 (ed. P.G.H. Evans, E.C.M. Parsons & S.L. Clark), pp. 109-111. Kiel: European Cetacean Society.
Assessment of relative abundance and distribution of the minke whale using data collected from a whale watching operation
Fairbairns, R., Gordon, J., Hiby, A., Leaper, R., Lovell, P. and Papastavrou, V. 1997. Assessment of relative abundance and distribution of the minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) using data collected from a whale watching operation. European Research on Cetaceans 10 (ed. P.G.H. Evans), pp. 154-158. Kiel: European Cetacean Society.
Whalewatching - ecotourism and research - a Scottish point of view.
Fairbairns, R. 1996. Whalewatching - ecotourism and research - a Scottish point of view. European Research on Cetaceans 9 (ed. P.G.H. Evans & H. Nice), p. 285. Kiel: European Cetacean Society. (Abstract)
Collecting scientific data on whalewatching project: opportunities and problems.
Fairbairns, R., Booth, J., Walmsley, T., Fairbairns, J., Menhenett, C. and Gordon, J.C.D. 1994. Collecting scientific data on whalewatching project: opportunities and problems. European Research on Cetaceans 8 (ed. P.G.H. Evans), p. 32. Cambridge: European Cetacean Society. (Abstract)
Benign research on minke whales off the Island of Mull, Scotland.
Chappell, J., Cooke, J., Fairbairns, R., Gordon, J.C.D., Hiby, A., Papastavrou, V. and Lovell, P. 1994. Benign research on minke whales off the Island of Mull, Scotland. European Research on Cetaceans 7 (ed. P.G.H. Evans),pp. 103. Cambridge: European Cetacean Society. (Abstract)
Survey of cetaceans in the Minches and Sea of Hebrides
Evans, P.G.H., Swann, C., Lewis, E.J., Parsons, E.C.M., Heimlich-Boran, J. and Heimlich-Boran, S. 1993. Survey of cetaceans in the Minches and Sea of Hebrides, Northwest Scotland. European Cetacean Research on Cetaceans 7 (ed. P.G.H. Evans). pp. 111-116. Cambridge : European Cetacean Society.
Project Reports
SNH Commissioned Report 354: Distribution, abundance and population structure of bottlenose dolphins in Scottish waters
Thompson, P.M., Cheney, B., Ingram, S., Stevick, P., Wilson, B. and Hammond, P. (Eds) (2011). Distribution, abundance and population structure of bottlenose dolphins in Scottish waters. Scottish Government and Scottish Natural Heritage funded report. Scottish Natural Heritage Commissioned Report No. 354.
Download and view on the SNH website HERE.
Assessment of the impacts and utility of acoustic deterrent devices
Northridge, S.P., Gordon, J.G., Booth, C., Calderan, S., Cargill, A., Coram, A., Gillespie, D., Lonergan, M. and Webb, A. (2010) Assessment of the impacts and utility of acoustic deterrent devices. Final Report to the Scottish Aquaculture Research Forum, Project Code SARF044: 34pp.
View report HERE
Entanglement of minke whales in Scottish waters; an investigation into occurrence, causes and mitigation
Northridge, S., Cargill, A., Coram, A., Mandleberg, L., Calderan, S. and Reid, B. 2010. Entanglement of minke whales in Scottish waters; an investigation into occurrence, causes and mitigation. Final Report to Scottish Government CR/2007/49. (2.1 MB)
HLF NADAIR 2 Projects 82 & 83 2005-2008 (1.2MB)
SNH Summary Report 2008 (2.6MB)
2007 Field Season Report (1.2MB)
Bottlenose Dolphins of the Hebrides - a summary report from five years of research 2001-2005 (1.9MB)
NADAIR Project 28 Final Report 2005 (1.5MB)
HWDT Science Report: Silurian Monitoring 2003 - 2004 (400KB)
NADAIR Project 5 Final Report 2004 (1.9MB)
Bottlenose Dolphin Project Report 2004 (1.2MB)
NADAIR Projects 5, 28 & 29 Progress Report 2003 (5.1MB)
Marine Special Areas of Conservation and Tourism: The Treshnish Isles and the Firth of Lorn
Arlot, S., Parsons, E.C.M. and Colbert, A. 2003. Marine Special Areas of Conservation and Tourism: The Treshnish Isles and the Firth of Lorn. Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust, Mull. 116pp.
Marine environmental awareness in Argyll, west Scotland
Scott, N. and Parsons, E.C.M. 2001. Marine environmental awareness in Argyll, west Scotland. Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust, Mull, Scotland. 97pp. (1.8MB)
Whale-watching in West Scotland
Warburton, C.A., Parsons, E.C.M., Woods-Ballard, A., Hughes, A. and Johnston, P. 2001. Whale-watching in West Scotland. Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, London. (516KB)
Education and Research Report 2000 (216KB)
Photo-identification of the minke whale around the Isle of Mull
Gill, A., Fairbairns, B., Fairbairns, R. 2000. Photo-identification of the minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) around the Isle of Mull, Scotland. Report to the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust. (6.35MB)
Education and Research Report 1999 (930KB)
Bottlenose dolphins of the Hebrides - a summary report from five years of research (2001 - 2005)
Report on passive acoustic monitoring of cetacean distribution north-west of the Hebrides
Lewis, T.P., Swift, R., Gonzalbes, P., Butler, J. and Gordon, G. 1998. Report on passive acoustic monitoring of cetacean distribution north-west of the Hebrides 1997-1998, for Conoco UK. Tobermory, Mull: Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust. (1.4MB)
Investigating the feasibility of a long-term ecological study of the minke whale on the west coast of Scotland
Gill, A. 1997. Investigating the feasibility of a long-term ecological study of the minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) on the west coast of Scotland. Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust, Mull. 43pp.
Risso's dolphins in the coastal waters around the Eye Peninsula, Isle of Lewis
Gill, A. and Atkinson, T. 1996. Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus) in the coastal waters around the Eye Peninsula, Isle of Lewis, Scotland. Report to the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society. 49pp.
Risso's dolphins in the coastal waters around the Eye Peninsula, Isle of Lewis
Gill, A. and Atkinson, T. 1996. Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus) in the coastal waters around the Eye Peninsula, Isle of Lewis, Scotland. Report to the Carnegie Trust for the Universities of Scotland. 25pp.
Analysis of data collected from observations of a humpback whale in the Clyde Estuary
Gill, A. 1995. Analysis of data collected from observations of a humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) in the Clyde Estuary, Glasgow. Report to the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society. 30pp.
Range tracking of the minke whale off the Isle of Mull
Fairbairns, R., Gill, A. and Sargent, T. 1994. Range tracking of the minke whale, Balaenoptera acutorostrata, off the Isle of Mull 1994. Report by the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust. 52pp.
Student Projects
Spatiotemporal patterns of marine megafauna distribution in coastal waters off the west coast of Scotland
Hooper, E. 2013. Spatiotemporal patterns of marine megafauna distribution in coastal waters off the west coast of Scotland. BSc Thesis, University of Nottingham 51pp. (1.3MB)
An investigation into the relationship between the spatial and temporal distribution of marine megafauna species and bathymetric features in the Sea of Hebrides
Hill, K. 2012. An investigation into the relationship between the spatial and temporal distribution of marine megafauna species and bathymetric features in the Sea of Hebrides. BSc Thesis, University of the Highlands and Islands, and Scottish Association for Marine Science. 142pp. (10MB)
Non-lethal entanglement of minke whales in fishing gear in the Hebrides
Mathewson, F. 2012. Non-lethal entanglement of minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) in fishing gear in the Hebrides. BSc thesis. University of St Andrews. 38pp. (1.8MB)
Variation in habitat preference and distribution of harbour porpoises west of Scotland
Booth, C.G. (2010) Variation in habitat preference and distribution of harbour porpoises west of Scotland. PhD thesis. Scottish Oceans Institute, Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews: 264 pp. Abstract only (120KB)
The full thesis is available for public download HERE.
A comparison of the predictive abilities of four approaches for modelling the distribution of cetaceans
Mandleberg, L. 2004. A comparison of the predictive abilities of four approaches for modelling the distribution of cetaceans. MSc thesis. School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, UK, 54pp. (2.4MB)
An overview of the effects of Naval sonar activity world-wide on cetaceans with relation to cetaceans on the west coast of Scotland
Barry, S. 2004. An overview of the effects of Naval sonar activity world-wide on cetaceans with relation to cetaceans on the west coast of Scotland. Marine Resource Development and Protection. MSc thesis. Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh. 94pp.
Perceived attitudes to visitor management in the Treshnish Isles and the Firth of Lorn SAC
Arlot, S. 2002. Perceived attitudes to visitor management in the Treshnish Isles and the Firth of Lorn SAC. Honours thesis. Napier University. 121pp.
A study of the distribution of cetaceans around the Isle of Islay, Scotland, and their relationship with oceanographic and environmental variables
Bailey, H. 2002. A study of the distribution of cetaceans around the Isle of Islay, Scotland, and their relationship with oceanographic and environmental variables. MSc thesis. Southampton University.
A study of the extent of interpretation in marine wildlife tourism in western Scotland
Bridgland, R. 2002. A study of the extent of interpretation in marine wildlife tourism in Western Scotland. MSc thesis. Napier University. 67pp.
Results of a preliminary land based survey on common minke whales in the waters around Ardnamurchan Point
Lazaratou, M. 2002. Results of a preliminary land based survey on common minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) in the waters around Ardnamurchan Point, Scotland. MSc thesis. University of Edinburgh. 40pp.
The role of ecotourism in setting up an accreditation scheme
Arlot, S. 2001. Promoting whale-watching tourism in Western Scotland. The role of ecotourism in setting up an accreditation scheme. Diploma thesis. Napier University, Edinburgh. 77pp.
What is the potential for a marine-based ecotourism facility in the Western Isles?
MacLeod, C.A. 2001. What is the potential for a marine-based ecotourism facility in the Western Isles. Honours thesis. University of the Highlands and Island, Lewis. 53pp.
The spatial and temporal distribution of cetaceans off the west coast of Scotland in relation to environmental factors: implications for marine management
MacLeod, K. 2001. The spatial and temporal distribution of cetaceans off the west coast of Scotland in relation to environmental factors: implications for marine management. PhD thesis. University of Greenwich. 333pp.
Please click here to read the publication.
Tourism - a sustainable industry?
Pettigrew, R. 2001. Tourism - a sustainable Industry? Exploring the opportunities and threats to rural communities - The Isle of Mull. Honours Thesis. Edinburgh University. 69pp. (560KB)
Distribution and abundance of bottlenose dolphins around the Isle of Islay
Potter, S. 2001. Distribution and abundance of bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus, around the Isle of Islay. MSc thesis. Aberdeen University. 69pp.
Land-based survey of cetaceans around Ardnamurchan Point and the Small Isles
Zölck, M. 2001. Land-based survey of cetaceans around Ardnamurchan Point and the Small Isles, Scotland. MSc thesis. Aberdeen University. 47pp.
Tourism as a sustainable industry in the rural community of Arisaig
Hughes, A. 2000. Tourism as a sustainable industry in the rural community of Arisaig, West Scotland. MSc thesis. Napier University, Edinburgh. 61pp. (250KB)
An identification of potential impacts of military activities on cetaceans in the Hebrides
Pooley, S. 2000. An identification of potential impacts of military activities on cetaceans in the Hebrides. MSc thesis. Herriot-Watt University, Edinburgh. 82pp. (500KB)
Whale-watching in Scotland with a case study on the Isle of Skye
Woods-Ballard, A. 2000. Whale-watching in Scotland with a case study on the Isle of Skye. MSc thesis. Edinburgh University. 99pp. (1.2MB)
Oil spills and marine wildlife: guidelines for a response plan for the Isle of Mull
Hill, J.A. 1999. Oil spills and marine wildlife: guidelines for a response plan for the Isle of Mull. MSc thesis. Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh. 117pp. (382KB)
A contingency plan for the at sea response to an oil spill incident in the waters of the Inner Hebrides
Leaver, I.D. 1999. A contingency plan for the at sea response to an oil spill incident in the waters of the Inner Hebrides. MSc thesis. Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh. 54pp. (2MB)
Cetacean conservation in the Hebrides: review and management recommendations
Shrimpton, J. 1999. Cetacean conservation in the Hebrides: review and management recommendations. MSc thesis. Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh. 122pp.
Marine wildlife tourism and whale-watching on the Island of Mull
Warburton, C. 1999. Marine wildlife tourism and whale-watching on the Island of Mull, West Scotland. MSc thesis. University of Kent. 102pp. (619KB)
The effects of diel and seasonal cycles on the dive duration of the minke whale
Stockin, K. 1998. The effects of diel and seasonal cycles on the dive duration of the minke whale, Balaenoptera acutorostrata. B.Sc. Honours Thesis. Marine Biology Department, Plymouth University. 80pp
The use of geographical information systems to investigate the spatial and temporal relationships between minke whales distribution and seabed topography/sediment type off the Isle of Mull
Bowe, S. 1997. The use of geographical information systems to investigate the spatial and temporal relationships between minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) distribution and seabed topography/sediment type off the Isle of Mull, Scotland. MSc Thesis. Department of Zoology, Aberdeen University. 75pp.
Reducing incidental catch in fisheries: the effect of acoustic alarms on harbour porpoise vocal behaviour
Kershaw, L.A. 1997. Reducing incidental catch in fisheries: the effect of acoustic alarms on harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) vocal behaviour. MSc Thesis. Imperial College, University of London. 99pp.
Respiration rates of minke whales on the west coast of Scotland
Leeming, G. 1997. Respiration rates of minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) on the west coast of Scotland. Undergraduate Thesis. Royal Veterinary College, London. 61pp.
The effects of array noise in cetacean distribution and behaviour
Swift, R. 1997. The effects of array noise in cetacean distribution and behaviour. MSc Thesis. Department of Oceanography, University of Southampton. 163pp.
The photo-identification of the minke whale off the Isle of Mull
Gill, A. 1994. The photo-identification of the minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) off the Isle of Mull, Scotland. MSc Thesis. Aberdeen University. 67pp.