THE ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION OF THE HARBOUR PORPOISE (PHOCOENA PHOCOENA) ALONG THE WEST COAST OF THE UK ...

• Main Author: GOODWIN, LISSA
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: unknown
• Published: University of Plymouth 2007
• Subjects: Harbour porpoise; Phocoena phocoena
• Online Access: https://dx.doi.org/10.24382/2603; https://pearl.plymouth.ac.uk/handle/10026.1/1117

Whilst the harbour porpoise {Phocoena phocoena) is the most j&equently observed cetacean in the UK, it. is at risk from habitat degradation, pollution, incidental capture in fishing nets and anthropogenic disturbance. UK, European and International initiatives have highlighted the conservation need to obtain a better understanding of this species. This research, conducted over 5 years (1999-2004) aimed to fiirther the scientific knowledge of the harbour porpoise in order to influence fiiture conservation initiatives. Studies into the relative abundance, density, distribution, habitat use and behaviour were conducted through combinations of shore- and boat-based research. Technical trials of a towed acoustic device (T-POD) were also conducted from onboard the research vessel. Additional analysis of previously collected acoustic data from bottom-set gillnets was carried out This research presents some of the first examination of the west coast for the harbour porpoise. Porpoise density was found to be ...