Contributing to cetacean science just got easier!
Recording and reporting cetaceans while you are out on a walk, on a headland or enjoying a boat trip is a fun as well as very worthwhile activity, but what is the best and most efficient way to do so! This is where our new app comes in!
Sea Watch has launched a new updated version of our recording app, entitled “Sea Watcher”. This is freely available to everyone, with both an android version (download HERE) and one for Apple iOS users (download HERE). It can be run off smartphones or tablets and allows you to record dolphins and whales, all without the need for any other equipment, except maybe a pair of binoculars.
Watch our video on how to use the Sea Watcher App here:
The app allows for opportunistic sightings as well as dedicated surveys and is equipped to deal with both land and boat-based recording.
All sightings can be viewed on a map and there are a number of handy resources which will help identify what you’ve seen. In addition, there is a code of conduct for boat users, advice on photography, and details of what to do and who to contact if you find a stranded animal, either live or dead. It’s a great little pocket resource and an amazing opportunity to contribute to one of the longest running cetacean sightings networks in the world!
We want to say a special thank you to SEACAMS within Bangor University Ocean Sciences and NOVA Innovation for the initial build of the app. Thank you to Tranquil Tech for this latest upgrade, particularly Ahmed Ali and Khurram Islam Khan.
So next time you’re out and about, why not try it out! Learn more about UK cetaceans and support conservation!
We have made a huge amount of effort to ensure that the app functions well, but given the huge variety of mobile devices publicly available it is possible that some minor bugs might occur on some phones or tablets. We aim to continually update and develop the app to make it the best that it can be, so if you have any issues or suggestions, we would love to hear from you. The best way to contact us with issues or suggestions would be to drop an email to info@seawatchfoundation.org.uk or click the “contact us” button below. Please specify your device’s make and model in the email to help us resolve the issue quicker.