Get ready for Sea Watch Foundation’s annual National Whale and Dolphin Watch (NWDW for short), this year the event will be held on 27th, 28th and 29th July. The countdown begins…..
So what is exactly is NWDW I hear you ask?
NWDW is our annual event, supported by BG Group, aimed at gathering as much data as we possibly can on cetacean sightings in UK and Irish waters. All around the coast manned watches will be taking place; volunteers will be scanning the seas for signs that cetaceans are present; you might see a fin, fluke (tail), splashing, blowing (particularly from whales) or even leaping from some individuals. This event has been running for 11 years and is a great way to help us collect vital data on the 29 species of marine mammal which can be seen around the British coastline. All data gathered contributes to our dataset, which has over 60,000 records, making it one of the largest and longest running sightings schemes in the world! Any data or sightings you can provide us with are greatly appreciated- even if you don’t see anything, it all counts!
NWDW 2011, New Quay pier
Want to get involved? It’s easy!
Click here for NWDW information and to see our regularly updated map and list of locations of organised watches happening in your region. On the day, just turn up and introduce yourself to our volunteer representative and get watching. Or, if you fancy setting up your own watch just choose the date, time and location, then drop us an email with the information: sightings@seawatchfoundation.org.uk. We will send you a watch pack with everything you need and will talk you through how to fill in the forms. All eyes are needed, you don’t need to be an expert or have any previous experience to participate!
Things to remember….
Bring warm, waterproof clothes as it can get chilly, but remember to also bring sun cream, sunglasses (hopefully the British weather will smile on us!), snacks and water. If you have a pair of binoculars please bring them with you, but don’t worry if you haven’t, our volunteers will have some that you can use.
Finally, when you have finished your watch please, please remember to submit your sightings and send your effort data to us!
