Join a cetacean research team in Moray Firth, Scotland
Program Overview
As a volunteer on this project, you will have an exceptional opportunity to become actively involved in field activities devoted to the conservation and protection of cetaceans (dolphins, whales and porpoises) in Scotland.
You will assist our marine scientists with long-term studies of bottlenose dolphins and minke whales from our base on the dramatic southern coastline of Scotland’s spectacular Moray Firth. Consistent, long-term monitoring of these animals’ populations is a critical component of broader efforts to conserve the species and protect their ecologically important habitat.
As a volunteer, you will work closely alongside the researchers and the whales and dolphins themselves. Through your full participation and hands-on experience in all aspects of this research, you will learn a great deal about the animals and their environment.
Life on the Program
Our team is based in the picturesque fishing village of Gardenstown, near Banff in Aberdeenshire. Surrounded by majestic sandstone cliffs and rolling farmland, the area is a haven for wildlife which you are sure to enjoy exploring in your free time.
During the first two days of the program, you will have an orientation which will include introductory talks and presentations as well as boat and survey training. You will spend the rest of your time conducting surveys with the team or analyzing and collating data back at base. Our staff will give lectures on cetacean biology and management throughout your time on the project.
Your accommodation with other volunteers and staff. Electricity and hot water are available. Everyone will help with domestic duties of maintain the base and preparing meals.
Project Details
During surveys you will assist the team with a variety of research tasks, including:
- Counting animals
- Recording behavior
- Determining animals’ geographical positions and taking photographs
Much of the work is done onshore. Back on base, you will:
- Identify the animals encountered
- Catalogue slides and photographs
- Analyze your data
- See to general chores and household duties
In addition to your research work, you may be have the opportunity to assist our team with their exciting cetacean rescue work. Because of the general public’s interest in whales and dolphins, our team is also able to engage in public awareness campaigns and classes to educate people about the impact of marine pollution and marine conservation. As a volunteer, you may find yourself helping promote these campaigns, as well as getting involved in fundraising and PR events.
How this program makes a difference:
The cetacean species in the unprotected waters of the outer Moray Firth are currently listed as data deficient, vulnerable or near-threatened. Yet bottlenose dolphins, minke whales and harbour porpoises comprise a significant component of many coastal ecosystems, and a better knowledge of their behaviour, ecology, habitat requirements and their role in the marine environment is fundamental for their future management and conservation.
Volunteer Testimonials
I cherished my time in Gardenstown...the setting amazing, the staff outstandingly polite, experienced, relaxed, helpful, fun, approachable and down-to-earth. It was breath-taking to go out on the water on the RIBs and be involved with crucial conservation work. I loved my fellow team members and the high group morale. Good luck to all future volunteers - go for it!
My time in the Moray Firth was a life-changing experience. Every moment was one of great anticipation, every experience one of discovery and excitement. If you love the ocean, are thrilled by the grace and beauty of cetaceans, and you're looking for peace and beauty in a small, Scottish town by the edge of the sea, this adventure can't be missed!
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Program Details
Build Your Program
What's Included
- Pre-departure support and discounted services
- 24-hour emergency phone
- Airport pick-up (unless otherwise stated)
- Arrival orientation
- Long term experienced staff
- Safe and basic accommodations (usually shared)
- All meals (unless otherwise stated in field manuals)
- Welcome meeting
- Location orientation
- All necessary project training by experienced staff
- All necessary project equipment and materials
- 24-hour in-country support
- A Certificate of Participation, detailing your involvement and support for the project
- Full supervision and training by lead scientists and project leaders
What's Not Included
- Flights
- Medical and travel insurance
- Visa costs
- Personal kit
- Additional drinks and gratuities
- Extra local excursions
- International and domestic airport taxes
- Internal transfer costs to and from Banff
