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Scotland’s west coast is home to some of the most extraordinary and enigmatic marine life in Europe, but much still remains a mystery. New funded research aims to catalogue bottlenose dolphins sighted in west coast waters to gain new insights into their mysterious lives.
Read MoreFrom stormy seas to BBQ’s on the beach, our teams of students from St Andrew’s University Sea Mammal Research Unit (SMRU) embraced the elements to have a truly memorable time aboard our research vessel, Silurian.
Read MoreGlorious sunshine welcomed our team of citizen scientists aboard Silurian for our latest research expedition, setting the tone for an unforgettable week.
Read MoreA quarter of the global cetacean (the collective for whale dolphin and porpoises) species have been recorded in Scotland’s seas, marking this as an important area for these creatures.
Read MoreOur popular floating classroom school visits provide primary school children the opportunity to jump aboard our research vessel, Silurian, experiencing what it’s like to live and work as a marine mammal scientist.
Read MoreData gathered during expeditions on our research vessel, Silurian, have contributed to a new study investigating how accurate Automatic Identification System (AIS) data is in quantifying vessel traffic in coastal waters around Scotland.
Read MoreFantastic weather allowed for far-flung surveying as our latest group of citizen scientists ventured to the Outer Hebrides aboard Silurian, HWDT’s dedicated research vessel. Over five days, the team onboard encountered six species of marine mammal and surveyed over 300km collecting vital visual and acoustic data. Read all about their experiences here…
Read MoreThanks to generous sponsorship, HWDT are delighted to offer two free spaces to young adults living on the west coast of Scotland. If you are aged 16 or 17 and have an interest in the marine environment, apply today to join us for free on an expedition running 03 - 09 August 2025.
Read MoreIn an extraordinary feat of endurance and dedication, wild swimmer Holly Monson is preparing to take on the challenge of a lifetime.
Read MoreThe 2025 season has officially begun! Our first team of citizen scientists joined Silurian for eight days of survey from Tobermory. From bottlenose dolphins and harbour porpoise to puffins, seals, and even otters — the team recorded six marine mammal species and collected crucial acoustic and visual data to support conservation efforts. Read all about their experiences here…
Read MoreCreating connections with Scotland’s seas is important if we are to inspire the next generation of whale champions. When we create memorable and impactful moments, people are empowered to protect Scotland’s marine wildlife.
Read MoreThe Big Give Green Match Fund is LIVE and this is your moment to make DOUBLE THE DIFFERENCE. Donate now to connect people with Scotland’s seas.
Read MoreThis winter, a number of Humpback whales were sighted off the coast of Skye, bringing joy to many. However, this joy turned to despair when two of the individuals became entangled. Luckily, both were freed but not without stress and injury to the animals. Anthony Rigell, a dedicated whale watcher from Skye, was on the ground assisting with the response.
©Anthony Rigell
Read MoreAs everyone looks forward to the season ahead, we take a look back at what was a whaley busy winter.
©Ryan MacRae
Read MoreFollowing an extensive period of winter maintenance, our research vessel, Silurian, set sail on Hebridean seas once again to test some new equipment on board. The data gathered during expeditions is used to better understand our seas and protect the species found off Scotland’s west coast.
Read MoreExperiencing Scotland’s rich marine life is truly magical, but it comes with a responsibility to approach it respectfully.
Read MoreOver 60 million years ago, the common ancestor to all whales and dolphins roamed on land. Since taking to an aquatic life, they’ve adapted in remarkable ways to thrive in oceans across the globe; from icy polar waters to warm tropical seas. Let’s dive into some of their most astonishing adaptations.
Read MoreIn modern times, the importance and application of data is well understood; the digital world we live in has been driven by it. Data is vital to understanding trends and it’s no different when investigating environmental changes.
Read MoreOur passion for whales runs deep, and there’s so much to admire about these incredible creatures. On Valentine’s Day, we highlight some of the reasons why we loves whales and why you should too.
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