Conservation & Policy

The Hidden Noise of Salmon Farming: Are Industrial Net Cleaners Disturbing Scotland’s Porpoises?

By Clyde Porpoise | Marine Conservation and Underwater Acoustic Research Scotland’s salmon farming industry increasingly relies on powerful underwater machinery to maintain its fish pens. But what happens when industrial net-cleaning equipment introduces noise into waters occupied by harbour porpoises, dolphins and other marine wildlife? And is the existing regulatory system adequately protecting these animals? […]

Black Guillemots and Underwater Noise: A Hidden Threat to Sanda Island’s Seabirds?

Why the proposed salmon farm near Sanda Island raises important questions about underwater noise, seabird conservation and the future of the Clyde Sea Sill Marine Protected Area. The waters surrounding Sanda Island, at the southern entrance to the Firth of Clyde, are home to one of Scotland’s most distinctive diving seabirds: the black guillemot (Cepphus […]

Conservation & Policy

The Changing Clyde: Understanding the Overlapping Pressures on Whales, Dolphins and Porpoises

The Clyde is a changing marine environment where shipping, fishing, aquaculture, pollution and climate change place overlapping pressures on whales, dolphins and porpoises. Explore how these combined pressures affect marine wildlife and why understanding them is essential for the Clyde’s future.

Gannets and porpoise sharing a bait ball

Conservation & Policy

Harbour Porpoises: What Can They Tell Us About the Health of the Clyde?

Harbour porpoises can tell us much about the health of our seas. From fish populations and pollution to underwater noise, discover how studying these elusive marine mammals can reveal changes taking place across the Clyde ecosystem.

A yacht and crew watching bottlenose whales in the Clyde

Conservation & Policy

Watching Dolphins: When Wildlife Tourism Becomes Wildlife Disturbance

Watching wild dolphins can be an unforgettable experience, but when does wildlife tourism become disturbance? Scientific research reveals how close encounters and repeated boat approaches can affect dolphin behaviour, feeding and welfare, highlighting the importance of responsible wildlife watching.

A silhouette of a dolphin in bright sunlight and sparkling seas

Conservation & Policy

When Dolphins Seek Human Company: Where Should We Draw the Line?

Some wild dolphins actively seek contact with people, creating extraordinary encounters. But are these interactions always in the animals’ best interests? We explore the science, ethical questions and potential risks of encouraging dolphins to become accustomed to humans.