Scientists check for an increase in whale and dolphin strandings in Scotland

Sea mammal strandings in water around Scotland have increased “exponential”, scientists have found.

The number of whales, dolphins and porpoise in difficulty has increased from about 100 per year over a period of 30 years.

Researchers at the University of Glasgow said that possible causes include chemical, plastic, and noise pollution and accidental entangles in fishing gears.

The study between 1992 and 2022 recorded more than 5,140 trapped marine animals.

Stragging occurs when a marine animal gets stuck in shallow water or on the coastline. This is often the result of death or injury.

the study, Published in scientific reportsThe strands associated with common dolphins and Balen whales led to a standing growth – filter -fed species that include Mink and Hampback Whale.

The new research used data collected by the Scottish Marine Animal Stragging Scheme (SMASS).

Harbor Porpose was responsible for more than half of all strands – 2,676 – followed by pelgic dolphins with 1,217 incidents.

According to research, a total of 494 common dolphins and 479 Balen Whales were stranded over a period of 30 years.

Scientists said deep divers, such as sperm whales, and Pelgic Dolphin showed steady growth in the strands from the 1990s.

Researchers stated that it was difficult to indicate accurate reasons, they agreed that human activities were likely to affect wildlife.

Scientists said that “major threats” fish shares, noise pollution and decreasing Confused with lost fishing gear,

Other risk housing changes were due to sea temperature, and chemical and plastic pollution.

Rachel Lennon, a leading writer and PhD researcher at the University of Glasgow, said: “Fisheries interactions are recognized as an important threat to marine mammals, especially for the Balen Whale in Scotland.

“The effects of historical whaling causes the population to recover, the report of complication has increased.

“While determining the accurate causes of strandings can be complex, identifying these emerging trends provides an important starting point for targeting future research.”

Many initiatives have been taken to deal Threat of confusionScottish complication including coalition (sea).

The coalition of protection groups, rescue teams and fishermen has sought to find the best practices to avoid complications, and the most effective reactions to any event.

Dr. of SMASS Andrew Brownlo said: “This research shows that the reports of trapped maritime animals – many made by members of the public – can provide important clues about the overall health of our seas.

“These animals act as the sea watchdog, and the increasing number of stranding may be an initial warning that something is changing in the sea environment.”