Bottlenose dolphins make a splash in Loch Leven

A pod of bottlenose dolphins were spotted in Loch Leven last week by a group taking part in a powerboat course.

The pod was swimming with the boat and playing around, providing some incredible views of dolphins in the wild. Pictures and videos of the dolphins were uploaded by Stewart Griffiths, who was running the course for iPowerboat.

The marine conservation charity ORC, identified the dolphins. Head of Science and Conservation Lucy Babey said: ‘These are bottlenose dolphins and what fantastic videos. Not only were the animals on great form but the conditions were perfect for watching as well.

‘Bottlenose dolphins are recorded around the west coast of Scotland. Though they aren’t the most common dolphin species seen in the region, they are certainly not a rare occurrence and we do record them on our surveys from CalMac ferries.’

Due to Loch Leven being a sea loch, it gets regular visits from marine mammals and there has even been a sperm whale in the area, according to the Whale and Dolphin Conservation charity.

While it is amazing to see whales and dolphins in the wild, it is against the law to disturb their daily lives, even in a chance encounter.

With their campaign #RudeToIntrude the WDC wants to raise awareness for ways they can be disturbed.

‘A good encounter is one that is enjoyable for you and the whales or dolphins. If you are on the water, keep your distance and let them be in control of the encounter.

The bottlenose dolphins, right, seemed to be enjoying the waters of Loch Leven – and the company.