This weekend, the IWDG were out and about delivering training and leading watches to encourage IWDG members and the public to watch for and record whalers and dolphins in Irish waters.
IWDG Science Officer Seán O’Callaghan was on Achill Island, Co Mayo leading a watch with the newly formed Mayo IWDG. Seán led a group of 16 people on a watch over Keem Bay and had a great tally of two minke whales, four basking sharks and up to 30 bottlenose dolphins. The breaching bottlenose had to contend with the skim feeding basking sharks that were almost in the surf!. It just goes to show the northwest of Ireland can be as productive as the southwest, you just need to put in the effort to reap the rewards. Thoise interested in getting involved should contact IWDGMayo@gmail.com.
IWDG CEO delivered a training course at the Shannon Dolphin Centre, headquarters of the IWDG in collaboration with the National Biodiversity Data Centre. The NBDC Administrative & Engagement Officer, Ben Malone, made the trip down from Co Kilkenny for a second year running to help deliver this popular course. The 20 strong attendees had great views of up to 12 bottlenose dolphins from Loop Head after talks, images and skulls were examined in the centre.
Next up as part of National Biodiversity Week is a watch at Loop Head on 18th May (https://business.facebook.com/events/441599619909830/) followed by Slea Head, Co Kerry, Bray Head, Co wicklow and Cloghna Head Co Cork on 25th May and on 26th May at Helvic Head, Co Waterford.
IWDG are available to deliver a range of courses including live stranding training for local groups. Please contact enquiries@iwdg.ie if you wish to organise a course in your area.