Sightings

The waters of the Hebrides are one of the most important marine habitats in Europe, home to nearly 70% of its whale, dolphin and porpoise species, in addition to basking sharks and seals. Although we know these species inhabit our waters, we still know remarkably little about their distribution, abundance, habitats or the threats that face them. You can help us find out more.

HWDT’s Community Sightings Network encourages residents, local wildlife operators and visitors to the area to report their sightings of whales, dolphins and porpoises to HWDT. This information is important because it contributes to our understanding of where and when particular species occur. In this section of our site is our online sightings form. HWDT also responds to reports of stranded animals.

In this section you will also find information and tips about where, when and how to watch cetaceans and identification tips for all species. Summary monthly reports will give you an overview of current cetacean activity on the west coast and you can view the archive for previous months and years.