A groundbreaking two-year survey of Irish waters has revealed a treasure trove of marine life, including rare sightings of killer whales and giant turtles. The €4.5 million project, dubbed Observe II, covered nearly 500,000 square kilometres of Irish marine territory.
Scientists from University College Cork took to the skies for this extensive aerial survey, documenting an impressive array of sea creatures. They spotted 24 species of seabirds and 17 species of cetaceans, painting a vibrant picture of Ireland’s marine biodiversity.
Common and bottlenose dolphins were abundant, sharing the waters with minke whales, fin whales, and humpbacks. Even the elusive sperm whale, made famous by Herman Melville’s “Moby-Dick,” made an appearance.
However, it wasn’t all good news. The survey raised concerns about the harbour porpoise, Ireland’s smallest whale and dolphin species. Numbers have declined markedly since previous studies, potentially due to fishing nets, pollution, and marine noise.
According to The Irish Independent, seabirds were well-represented, with gannets, kittiwakes, fulmars, and guillemots frequently sighted. Surprisingly, kittiwakes showed up in high numbers, despite recent struggles.
Junior Minister for Nature Malcolm Noonan hailed the survey as a significant step in understanding Ireland’s marine environment. The data collected will inform crucial decisions on offshore wind farm locations and marine conservation efforts.
As Ireland continues to explore its vast marine resources, this survey serves as a vital snapshot of the rich and diverse life beneath the waves. It’s a reminder of the natural wonders that surround our island nation and the importance of protecting these aquatic habitats for generations to come.