Risso’s dolphins make a splash as sightings treble in a year
RISSO’S dolphins have had a bumper year, as sightings have trebled according to the Wildlife Trusts’ annual roundup.
Wildlife enthusiasts were treated to 156 sightings of the mammal this year compared to 45 in 2022.
The NGOS found other marine species to be recovering around the British Isles, notably the Atlantic bluefin tuna, which was fished almost to extinction in the 20th century.
It has been seen off the coasts of Devon and Cornwall as well as Scotland while dolphins and humpback whales have also been making comebacks.
There were multiple sightings of these animals in what are called bait ball feeding frenzies, when predators force fish into a tight ball near the surface to trap them and several species plunge in to feed at the same time.
Having so many sightings could be a sign that these populations are recovering after decades of being hunted by humans.
Dr Lissa Batey, head of marine conservation at the Wildlife Trusts, said: “Regulation is vital for protecting the natural world and reversing wildlife declines. The end of commercial whaling has brought humpbacks and fin whales back to UK waters, and measures to protect bluefin tuna has led to a spike in sightings.
“This fantastic fish has returned from the brink of extinction and the risk of decimating the population for a second time remains high, so it is vital that commercial fishing quotas are set realistically and rigorously enforced.
“When we give nature space, wildlife can recover, it’s as simple as that.
“We must act faster to protect the UK target of 30 per cent of seas by 2030.”