Members of the public are invited to take part in dolphin, whale and porpoise surveys around the UK as part of the 11^th National Whale and Dolphin Watch. The data collected during the event will help in developing a snapshot of the distribution of dolphins, whales and porpoise around the UK. This is an opportunity for everyone to become involved in the research which goes into understanding and protecting these magnificent creatures.

How to take part?

• Join an organised land watch.

  These watches will be posted on the website in the run up to the event

• Participate in a sea-based watch by joining whale and dolphin watching trips organised by approved boat operators around the country.

  These watches will be posted on the website in the run up to the event

• Set up your own watch. No need to be an expert, just download some forms and choose a watch site near you. Danielle, SWF sightings officer, can talk you through the data collection procedure and help you prepare for your watch.
• If you are out and about, at sea or by the coast sailing, fishing, diving, hiking or just walking you dog don’t forget to keep a look out and send us your sightings, by post, email, or telephone as soon as possible, so that we can update our website list of sightings immediately. Remember - all data is important to us!

For more information on NWDW 2012 please contact Danielle, SWF sightings officer on 01545 561227 or by email.

How to report your sightings?

Email us your sightings and photos or call 01545 561227 giving us a many details as you can about where and what you have seen.

Click here to go the online recording form.

Click here to download recording forms.

Find out what's been seen in your area!

Click here to see recent sightings in your area.

Click here for the NWDW 2011 report

Regional contacts

List of recommended tour operators.

List of regional contacts.

During the coming months, more details of how to take part and of the locations and dates of Watch sites will be posted on this site, so please revisit us regularly and make a note of the dates in your diary.

For any information on NWDW or Sea Watch in general, or if you are interested in becoming a regular whale and dolphin watcher and joining one of our regional groups please contact the Sightings Officer on 01545 561227 or email your contact details to sightings@seawatchfoundation.org.uk. We also record sightings through out the year, not just during the NWDW, so you can send us sightings anytime.

NWDW is proudly sponsored by BG