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In recent research conducted by scientists at the University of Glasgow, it was revealed that there has been a significant increase in marine mammal strandings in Scottish waters. Over a 30-year period, the number of whales, dolphins, and porpoises facing difficulties has surged from around 100 annually to over 300. Causes behind these distressing incidents are believed to include factors such as pollution (chemical, plastic, and noise) and accidental entanglements in fishing gear.
A study published in Scientific Reports highlighted a notable rise in strandings involving common dolphins and baleen whales, which are filter-feeding species encompassing minke and humpback whales. Data from the Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme (SMASS) was utilized in this new research, revealing that harbour porpoises accounted for over half of all reported strandings, followed by pelagic dolphins. The research indicated that common dolphins and baleen whales were among the species most affected by strandings.
Despite the difficulty in pinpointing exact causes, researchers have pointed toward human activities as potential culprits impacting marine wildlife. The threats identified include declining fish stocks, noise pollution, entanglements with lost fishing equipment, habitat disruption from rising sea temperatures, and chemical/plastic pollution. Lead author and PhD researcher at the University of Glasgow, Rachel Lennon, emphasized the criticality of addressing fisheries interactions as a significant threat to marine mammals, particularly baleen whales.
The findings underscore the need for continued efforts to address and mitigate the risks that lead to marine mammal strandings. Initiatives such as the Scottish Entanglement Alliance (Sea), a collaborative effort involving conservation groups, rescue teams, and fishermen, are focused on devising best practices to prevent entanglements and ensure effective responses to such incidents. Dr. Andrew Brownlow of SMASS emphasized the importance of public reports of stranded marine animals as indicators of the overall health of the seas, highlighting the potential of these animals to act as sentinels of the ocean and provide early warnings of environmental changes
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