Marine Team Research

Marine Team members have a history of marine mammal and fisheries research. Through this research we have developed skills in the behavioural observations of marine mammals, environmental impact assessments and acoustic research and monitoring. In particular, we have experience of acoustic monitoring equipment such as T-Pods for porpoise and dolphin monitoring, towed arrays used in line transect surveys and towed and static arrays used for mitigation during seismic and decommissioning projects with the oil industry.

Some members are still currently involved in research and employment generated through the Marine Team helps to fund some of these projects.

Examples of Research carried out by our members are:

Current Research Projects

• Ecological Studies of minke whale around the San Juan Islands, Washington State USA (www.northeastpacificminke.org) - Frances Robertson
• Reaction of sea otters to the Presence of killer whales, British Columbia, Canada – Katie Kuker

Previous Research Projects

• Research on the on the evolution of killer whale call repertoires, British Columbia, Canada – Andy Foote
• Studying marine mammal interactions with longline fishing vessels, South Georgia – Michael Unwin
• Ecological studies of minke whales on the west coast of Scotland, UK (www.projectminke.com) - Alison Gill
• A study into the usage of an ecological reserve by killer whales in British Columbia, Canada – Frances Robertson
• Ecological and acoustic study of Risso’s dolphins, Isle of Lewis, Scotland – Alison Gill
• Fisheries Research, Southern Ocean – John McDonagh
• The effects of acoustic deterrent devices on harbour porpoise and seals in the vicinity of fish farms in Orkney, Scotland – Frances Robertson
• Behavioural studies of humpback whales, Hawaii – Katie Kuker
• Ecological Studies of minke whales, St Lawrence Estuary, Canada – Katie Kuker
• Acoustic assessment of harbour porpoise during the trials of a prototype high velocity tidal generator – Paul Fisher
• Studies to reduce incidental mortality of endangered albatross and petrel species, Falkland Islands – Matt Edwards
• Trials of an environmental friendly ‘dolphin alerting device’ – Paul Fisher