News / Killer whale research in Shetland
WITH several sightings of killer whales already this spring (leading to some confirmed identification matches) it is appropriate to bring people’s attention back to the work of the North Atlantic Killer Whale ID project (NAKID)
The continued support both locally within Shetland and indeed from visitors has been key to the success of the project to date. This summer we again encourage and invite anyone fortunate enough to see or photograph killer whales in Shetland to please contact us to report the sighting. Although co-founder of the NAKID project Dr Andy Foote will be returning to Shetland this summer, he will not actually arrive until the 3rd of July when he will be joining us on our North Isles Nature Cruise with Simon King.
Dr Foote said: “In the absence of any of the research team for the first part of the 2011 spring/ summer we are asking for reports and information on killer whale sightings to please be called or texted in to Brydon Thomason on 07786 982 773.
“Brydon has played an integral role in the project from the start and has been helping us both when we are there or away, so it seems like a natural transition and the best way for us to keep information and interest going within the isles.
“We also hope to make the ID catalogue available to the public as a free download at some point this summer.”
Dr Volker Deeke, a research fellow at the Sea Mammal Research Unit studying the behaviour of killer whales in Scottish waters, also hopes to be rejoining the Shetland Nature team this summer.
For an update of 2010 killer whale sightings visit www.shetlandnature.net/2010/12/02/killer-whale-sightings-in-shetland-2010/
More information on NAKID can be found at www.northatlantickillerwhales.com
Shetland Nature can also be followed on facebook at www.facebook.com/shetlandnature or twitter at www.twitter.com/shetlandnature
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
