2011 Marine Mammal Strandings Annual Report active/2011 Marine Mammal Strandin… · 2 INTRODUCTION...

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Marine Mammal & Marine Turtle Strandings (Welsh Coast)

Annual Report 2011

R.S.Penrose. May 2012

Marine Environmental Monitoring Penwalk Llechryd Cardigan Ceredigion West Wales SA43 2PS e-mail: [email protected]

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REPORT DISTRIBUTION.

British Divers Marine Life Rescue. J. Barnett P. Lewis Carmarthen Bay & Estuaries European Marine Site. B. Bullimore Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science. R. J. Law Countryside Council for Wales. Dr A. McMath T. Stringell R. Pratt Dyfed Powys Police (Wildlife Unit) A. Mason Environment Agency. K. Cameron Local Authorities. Anglesey D. Brown

Bridgend G. Hobbs Cardiff R. Chapman Carmarthenshire E. Waters Ceredigion B. Jones Conwy T. Mead Denbighshire M. Bud Flintshire T. Woodall Gwynedd B. Davies Neath Port Talbot G. Marquis Pembrokeshire A. Woods Swansea C. Morgan Vale of Glamorgan R. May

Marine Aware North Wales. N. Jones Maritime & Coastguard Agency. Swansea E. Birkett

Milford Haven A. Turnbull Holyhead J. Paton

Natural History Museum. B. Smith

R. Sabin E. Evans

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. J. Hodges RSPCA R. Atkinson

R. de Kerckhove SAC Officers. Ceredigion J. Kelly

Pembrokeshire S. Burton Gwynedd A. Hargrave

Scottish Agricultural College (SAC) Inverness. Dr A. Brownlow

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Sea Watch Foundation. Dr P. Evans Snowdonia National Park Authority. I. Eryl Jones The Wildlife Trusts. F. Catternach

S. Kessell University College Cork. Dr E. Rogan University of Liverpool. Dr J.R. Baker Dr J. Chantry WDCS M. Simmonds Welsh Assembly Government. L. Cosgrove Dr K. Raymond J. Thomas Welsh Marine Life Rescue. T. Leadbetter Zoological Society of London. Dr P. Jepson

R. Deaville

Others : Jemma & Ray Lerwill Sal Shipley Jan Loveridge CWT

Judith Oakley

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CONTENTS

Page 1 CRYNODEB GWEITHREDOL 6

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 7 2 INTRODUCTION 8 3 MATERIALS AND METHODS 8 3.1 Live Animals. 9 3.2 Dead Animals. 9 4 RESULTS 10 4.1 Marine Mammals. 10 4.2 Bottlenose Dolphin Attacks. 15 4.3 Unusual Occurrences. 16 4.4 Live Strandings. 20 4.5 Tagging. 21 5 OTHER MARINE ANIMALS REPORTED TO THE NETWORK 22 5.1 Marine Turtles. 22 5.2 Sharks. 23 6 SAMPLES 23 7 FUNDING 23 8 PUBLICITY 23 9 LEGISLATION 23 10 EQUIPMENT 24 11 TRAVEL 24 12 ADMINISTRATION 24 13 CAUSE OF DEATH 24 14 LIST OF SCIENTIFIC NAMES USED IN THIS REPORT 25 15 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 26 16 APPENDICES 26

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List of Figures. page

Figure 1. Current Technical Co-ordination of the Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP). 8

Figure 2. Reported bottlenose dolphin strandings on the Welsh coast. 12Figure 3. Bottlenose dolphin strandings by month. 12

Figure 4. Bottlenose dolphin strandings averaged over 1990 to 2011. 12Figure 5. Reported harbour porpoise strandings on the Welsh coast. 13

Figure 6. Harbour porpoise strandings by month. 13Figure 7. Harbour porpoise strandings averaged over 1990 to 2011. 13Figure 8. Reported grey seal mortality on the Welsh coast. 14

Figure 9. Grey seal mortality by month. 14Figure 10. Grey seal reports averaged over 1990 to 2011. 14Figure 11. Stranding locations of the 4 porpoises killed by bottlenose dolphins in

2011. 15

List of Plates.

Plate 1. Bottlenose dolphin SW2011/185 at ZSL. 16Plate 2. Female porpoise SW2011/194 at Porth y Rhaw 16

Plate 3. Healed injury to harbour porpoise SW2011/216. 17

Plate 4. Common dolphin SW2011/263. 17

Plate 5. The MSE at Kyle of Durness, Scotland. 18Plate 6. Bottlenose dolphin SW2011/331. 18Plate 7. Bottlenose dolphin SW2011/334. 19

Plate 8. Lynmouth fin whale. 19

Plate 9. Bottlenose dolphin SW2011/462. 20

Plate 10. Grey seal SS2011/002 at Broad Haven. 20

List of Tables.

Table 1. 2011 Total number of reported marine mammal strandings (Welsh Coast). 10

Table 2. 2011 Number of live cetacean strandings (Welsh Coast). 10

Table 3. 2011 Number of animals selected for post-mortem examination. 11

Table 4. 2011 Number of animals decomposed/discarded (Welsh Coast). 11Table 5. Cause of death (Cetaceans). 25Table 6. List of scientific names used in this report. 25

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1. CRYNODEB GWEITHREDOL

Caiff yr UK Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP - rhaglen y DU ar gyfer ymchwilio tiriadau anifeiliaid o deulu'r morfilod) ei gydlynu’n dechnegol gan Gymdeithas Söolegol Llundain (ZSL). Teulu’r Morfilod: Derbyniodd Marine Environmental Monitoring adroddiadau am 119 o anifeiliaid o deulu'r morfil yn 2011. O’r rhain, llamidyddion a grybwyllwyd amlaf (89 ohonynt). Cafwyd adroddiadau ynghylch anifeiliaid eraill o deulu'r morfilod wedi tirio ar lannau Cymru yn 2011, gan gynnwys pedwar dolffin trwyn potel, tri ar ddeg o ddolffiniaid cyffredin, tri dolffin rhesog/cyffredin, saith ‘forfil o rywogaeth amhenodol’ a thri dolffin Risso. Daeth tri dolffin trwyn potel a dau ‘forfil o rywogaeth amhenodol’ i’r lan yn fyw; fe’u rhoddwyd yn ôl yn y môr gan aelodau o’r cyhoedd ac ni chafwyd rhagor o wybodaeth amdanynt. Cafwyd bod un a deugain mewn cyflwr o bydredd ‘newydd gychwyn i gymedrol’ ac fe'u hystyriwyd felly'n addas i'w harchwilio post-mortem. Dewiswyd 23 #were available o'r 41 i'w harchwilio. Trwy gydol 2011, ceid o hyd fod rhai llamidyddion wedi'u lladd gan ddolffiniaid trwyn potel. Bu gorfod i’r cynllun wneud llai o gofnodi ers 2006 a gwnaeth hyn hi’n anodd cymharu tueddiadau yn y gweithgaredd hwn â'r blynyddoedd cynt. Samplau: Yn ogystal â'r samplau arferol a gymerwyd o anifeiliaid a gasglwyd ar gyfer archwiliad post-mortem, cymerwyd samplau hefyd o bedwar ar ddeg o anifeiliaid eraill cyn cael gwared arnynt. Morloi: Derbyniodd Marine Environmental Monitoring adroddiadau am 98 morlo llwyd. Bu'r nifer o adroddiadau ynghylch morloi meirw yn uwch na’r disgwyl. Ni chasglwyd cyrff unrhyw forloi i'w harchwilio post mortem oherwydd nad oes arian gan CSIP i fonitro’r rhywogaethau hyn. Crwbanod: Cafwyd dau adroddiad am grwbanod môr yn tirio o gwmpas glannau Cymru. Cafwyd 14 adroddiad, rhwng mis Chwefror a mis Medi, bod crwban môr cefn lledr wedi’i weld Heulforgwn: Ni chafwyd unrhyw adroddiad yn ystod 2011 am heulforgi’n tirio. Ariannu: Dyfarnwyd cytundeb tair blynedd â Llywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru/Defra, ar gyfer 2011 ymlaen.

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1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The UK Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP) is under the technical co-ordination of the Zoological Society of London (ZSL). Cetaceans: One hundred and nineteen cetaceans were reported to Marine Environmental Monitoring in 2011. Harbour porpoise (n=89) was the most frequently reported cetacean. Other cetaceans reported stranded on the Welsh coast in 2011 included four bottlenose dolphins, 13 common dolphins, three common/striped dolphins, seven ‘cetacean species indeterminate’ and three Risso’s dolphins. Three common dolphins live-stranded and two ‘cetacean species indeterminate’ were returned to the sea by members of the public with no further information. Forty-one cetaceans were found to be in a state of ‘fresh to moderate’ decomposition and therefore considered to be suitable for post-mortem examination. Twenty-three of the 41 were available and selected for examination. Harbour porpoise ‘killed by bottlenose dolphin’ continued to be identified through 2011. Imposed reduced effort in recording from 2006 has made trends in this activity difficult to compare with previous years. Samples: In addition to routine samples taken from animals recovered for post-mortem examination, samples have also been taken from fourteen further animals before disposal. Seals: Ninety-eight grey seals were reported to Marine Environmental Monitoring. Numbers of dead seals reported were higher than expected. No seal carcasses were retrieved for post-mortem examination as there is no funding to monitor these species within the CSIP. Turtles: Two ‘stranded’ marine turtles were reported from around the Welsh coast. Reports of 14 leatherback turtle ‘sightings’ were received between June and September. Basking Sharks: No basking shark strandings were reported during 2011. Funding: A three-year contract with Defra/Welsh Government, for 2011 onwards, has been awarded.

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Figure 1. Current Technical Co-ordination of the Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP).

2. INTRODUCTION In 1990, the ‘Collaborative UK Marine Mammal Strandings Project’ was initiated and part-funded by the UK Department of the Environment (now Defra). The project involves detailed pathological and other investigations of stranded marine mammal carcasses (mostly cetacean) from UK waters. It forms part of the Department's international obligations towards conservation agreements, including the ‘Agreement on the conservation of Small Cetaceans of the Baltic and North Seas’ (ASCOBANS). Detailed pathological investigations of stranded marine turtles were included in 2001 and basking sharks in 2007. The project is now named the ‘Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme’ (CSIP) (see Figure 1.).

Funding to ZSL/IoZ, NHM and SAC was significantly reduced through 2006/2007. Funding to MEM by the Welsh Government and the Countryside Council for Wales fortunately remained at previous levels, however reduced travelling expenses supported by Defra via ZSL/IoZ has had a knock-on effect in Wales resulting in only known ‘fresh to moderate’ carcasses that can be successfully recovered for post-mortem examination being attended. Confirmation of species of other cetacean strandings has relied on digital photographs and known reliable sources. Where animals cannot be identified 100 per cent, the Strandings Co-ordinator has attended at his own expense if within a reasonable distance. Carcasses with unconfirmed species identification generally outside this area have been entered into the database as ‘cetacean species indeterminate’. In an attempt to operate within the reduced travelling budget two chest freezers were purchased and procedures now changed to freeze carcasses. Although this practice results in loss of some information during the post-mortem examination process, carcasses can now be ‘stock-piled’ and transported to London in larger numbers thus reducing the number of journeys per year. 3. MATERIALS AND METHODS A single contact number for the whole of the UK has now been agreed and publicised in the attached leaflet Appendix 4. The new UK number is now a free-phone number 0800 6520333 and a stepped menu system takes the caller through whether the stranding is live or dead and directs them to the correct organisation and the correct strandings co-ordinator for the appropriate country. Under the cover of these new changes the Welsh Strandings number was moved from Fishguard 01348 875000 to a new number at Llechryd 01239 683033. This number can still be reached direct if necessary and a message requests callers to leave details of the stranding and location, along with their name and contact phone number, so they can be reached if confirmation of details are required.

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A network of volunteers, rangers, wardens, coastal officers, Harbour Masters etc. has been maintained who can be contacted by the Strandings Co-ordinator to confirm the stranding, assess its condition and secure the animal from the effects of the tide, predation etc. until it can be dealt with. In recent years the use of digital cameras has vastly improved the quality of reporting as species, sex, and condition of carcass can be ascertained from the e-mailed image. A dedicated email address to receive digital photographs has been created [email protected] It is hoped this will reduce the number of ‘cetacean species indeterminate’ recorded in the database. The following criteria are applied: - 3.1 Live Animals

(Condition code 1)1 In 1994 the Marine Animal Rescue Coalition (MARC) was formed. This consists of all the major animal welfare and conservation bodies involved with marine mammals in the UK. It has been agreed that in the case of a live stranding the first point of call would be the RSPCA as they support a manned 24-hour emergency phone. The RSPCA would then contact the relevant organisations, Marine Environmental Monitoring etc. 3.2 Dead Animals

(Condition code 2a extremely fresh as if just died) 1 (Condition code 2b slight decomposition)1 (Condition code 3 moderate decomposition)1

The animal is retrieved using a 4-wheel drive vehicle and trailer. Health and safety precautions are followed with the animal being handled only with gloved hands. The carcass is usually stored frozen until delivery for post-mortem examination2. Live stranded animals that die or are euthanased may be transported to London for immediate post-mortem examination, to avoid loss of information through the freeze-thaw process. (Condition code 4 advanced decomposition)1

(Condition code 5 mummified carcass)1

Species identified, basic measurements taken if possible. Health and safety precautions being observed. Local council then contacted for safe disposal of remains. The CSIP database http://data.ukstrandings.org/ has continued to be the UK wide repository for all records with the exception of the TURTLE database which is yet to be incorporated into this web-based system. Members of the CSIP are now able to enter data directly to the database. Each access point or ‘node’ is password protected and the database automatically designates the appropriate reference number for the species being entered. Additional to this, the public are now able to access stranding data through regular updates to the National Biodiversity Network (NBN) Gateway ( www.nbn.org.uk ). Copies of post-mortem examination reports have been continued to be sent from the Strandings Co-ordinator to the finder and others associated with each relevant stranding.

1 Body conditions based on Kuiken, T. and Garcia Hartmann, M (1991) Proceedings of the European Cetacean Society workshop on cetacean pathology: dissection techniques and tissue sampling. ECS newsletter 17, Special issue: 39pp 2 Large cetaceans unable to be frozen or transported are investigated at their stranding location.

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4. RESULTS 4.1 Marine Mammals

Table 1.

2011 Total number of reported marine mammal strandings (Welsh Coast).

Species Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec TOTAL

Bottlenose dolphin 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 4Cetacean sp. Indet. 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 3 1 7Common dolphin 2 2 0 1 0 2 2 1 0 1 0 2 13Common/striped dolphin 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 3Harbour porpoise 2 2 3 5 8 16 14 14 15 5 2 3 89Risso's dolphin 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 3

Total cetaceans 4 4 3 6 9 18 17 19 18 9 5 7 119

Grey seal 7 1 0 2 8 13 5 13 20 20 4 5 98

Total animals 11 5 3 8 17 31 22 32 38 29 9 12 217

Table 2.

2011 Number of live cetacean strandings (Welsh Coast).



Total cetaceans 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 1 5

Of the 119 cetacean strandings 5 animals were found live-stranded during 2011. The 2 ‘cetacean sp. Indet.’ were returned to the sea by members of the public and so no further information could be gathered.

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Table 3.

2011 Number of animals selected for post-mortem examination.



Total cetaceans 1 3 1 3 4 4 2 0 2 1 0 2 23

Of the 119 cetacean strandings, 34.4% (41 animals classified as fresh to moderate decomposition) were suitable for post-mortem examination, of these, 23 animals were selected or were available for examination. The animals selected for post-mortem examination are listed, together with the cause of death, in 13. CAUSE OF DEATH. Page 24. Table 4.

2011 Number of animals decomposed / discarded. (Welsh Coast).



Total cetaceans 2 1 0 2 4 11 11 11 14 7 2 4 69

Grey seal 7 1 0 2 7 12 5 13 19 20 4 5 95

Total animals 9 0 0 4 11 0 16 24 33 27 6 9 164

Of the 217 total strandings in 2011, 75.5% (164 animals) were decomposed or discarded and the relevant local council contacted for safe disposal of remains. The remaining 13.8% (30 animals) (excluding the 23 selected for examination) were confirmed reports but were unable to be retrieved or disposed of due to various reasons i.e. no access to stranding, washed away, retrospective report or were found alive and returned to the sea.

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Figure 2. Reported bottlenose dolphin strandings on the Welsh coast.

Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncates) Although there is a resident population of bottlenose dolphins off the Welsh coast, strandings of this species are relatively unusual. Bottlenose dolphins are also a feature of the relevant Special Areas of Conservation (SAC’s) on the Welsh coast and are a priority species within the CSIP, it is for this reason that any available information on strandings of this species are included in this section. Four bottlenose dolphins were reported stranded during 2011, unfortunately only one was in a fresh enough condition for collection for a full post-mortem examination at ZSL. The other three were in an advanced state of decomposition and samples were taken from these where possible. Numbers of bottlenose dolphin strandings are normally low and individual cases are listed with further details under 4.3 Unusual Occurrences. Bottlenose dolphins in UK waters are large robust animals often measuring over three metres in length, these animals have a substantial mass of muscle. It may be possible, that once dead, these large animals become negatively buoyant only returning to the surface once gasses from decomposition counteract this effect. This may explain why so few bottlenose dolphins are found stranded dead in a fresh condition compared to decomposed carcasses.

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Figure 5. Reported harbour porpoise strandings on the Welsh coast.

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Figure 7. Harbour porpoise strandings averaged over1990 to 2011.

Harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) were the most frequently reported stranded cetacean during 2011. The black line shown running through the bar chart in Figure 5. indicates harbour porpoise neonates3 recovered in each year. This line has roughly mimicked and followed the totals for each year however, 2004 shows a marked decline in neonates compared to the reported total of porpoises for that year. Due to changes in funding and restrictions placed on transport arrangements introduced in 2006/2007, the numbers of porpoises recorded since 2006, (shaded yellow in Figure 5.) may be lower than the actual number stranded as not all carcasses were attended or identified to species. In an attempt to address this deficiency, various measures have been implemented, described in further detail in 3. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Page 8. Figure 6. shows consistent numbers of harbour porpoise strandings through the summer months of 2011without the peaks shown in previous years, however numbers recorded in 2011 were still higher than recent years as shown in Figure 5. above.

3 Neonate harbour porpoise classified as having a straight overall measurement from tip of upper jaw to tail notch of less than 0.90 metres. (Lockyer 1995).

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dFigure 8. Reported grey seal mortality on the Welsh

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Atlantic grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) mortality reported to Marine Environmental Monitoring remained high compared to previous years. Previous highs shown in Figure 8. occurred in 2004, due to severe weather during the pupping season, and 1996 and 2002. In both these years, 1996 and 2002, there was a high public effort in reporting as 1996 followed the Sea Empress Oil Spill (SEOS) and 2002 was the Phocine Distemper Virus (PDV) epizootic. Both these years also include data from the Pembrokeshire Islands which has not been recorded in other years. Animals retrieved for full post-mortem examination post SEOS4 and during the PDV5 epizootic showed no evidence that either of these events had any effect on the Welsh grey seal population. High mortality is normally associated with the pupping season which has been around September to November on the Welsh coast. However, this period appears to be extending earlier in the year to include August as shown in Figure 9. No explanation can be offered for this increase in mortality other than the Atlantic grey seal population in Pembrokeshire appears to be quite healthy and the mortality figures may just be a reflection on a high population.

4 Penrose, R. 1997. Sea Empress Oil Spill – West Wales review of marine mammal strandings from the west Wales coast 1991-1996. Report to CCW. 5 Lerwil, J.K, G.A.P. Jones and R.S. Penrose 2003. Seals in Wales: Response to a possible Phocine Distemper Virus (PDV) outbreak. Report to CCW.

Figure 9. Grey seal mortality by month.

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Figure 11. Stranding location of the 4 porpoises killed by bottlenose dolphins in 2011.

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4.2 Bottlenose Dolphin Attacks.

Harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) that had died of injuries consistent with attack by one or more bottlenose dolphin (Jepson & Baker 1998), continued to be found throughout 2011. The number of harbour porpoise carcasses reported to the project, identified as being “killed by bottlenose dolphins”, appear to have declined over time. However care should be used when interpreting this data as not all porpoise strandings have been examined since the beginning of 2006. The stranding locations for the animals attended or retrieved for post-mortem examination determined as being killed by bottlenose dolphins are plotted in Figure 11. Four porpoises collected for full post-mortem examination were found to be killed by bottlenose dolphins. The data presented here should not be interpreted as a decline in this activity as the numbers of porpoises selected for examination has been restricted since 2006.

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Plate 1. Bottlenose dolphin SW2011/185 at ZSL.

Plate 2. Female porpoise SW2011/194 at Porth y Rhaw.

4.3 Unusual Occurrences.

SW2011/185 was a 2.55 metre female bottlenose dolphin freshly dead, reported at Aberaeron, Ceredigion on the 14th May 2011. The carcass was rolling in a few centimetres of water on an incoming tide just to the north of the harbour entrance. This was a difficult recovery due to the new sea defences at this location. Members of the public had to be recruited to manoeuvre the un-hitched trailer onto the defences, between the two walls where the carcass could be loaded after being winched up and over the concrete steps. The cause of death was:- Generalised Bacterial Infection. SW2011/194 was a 1.57 metre female harbour porpoise in a state of slight decomposition at Porth y Rhaw, Pembrokeshire on the 23rd May 2011. The pectoral fin of a foetus could be seen protruding from a hole in the abdominal wall. The stranding location was some distance from the main road and Land Rover access was restricted due to narrow tracks. With this pregnant porpoise weighing 57kg and also being in a narrow gully recovery was eventually accomplished using ropes and the ATV quad bike. The carcass was recovered for full post-mortem to ZSL. The cause of death was:- Physical Trauma, Boat Strike.

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Plate 4. Common dolphin SW2011/263.

Plate 3. Healed injury to harbour porpoise SW2011/216.

SW2011/216 was a 1.56 metre female harbour porpoise reported stranded at St Ishmael, Carmarthenshire on the 13th June 2011. The carcass was in a state of slight decomposition and was recovered with the help of Haydn Morgan of the Welsh Government Inshore Fisheries Unit for a full post-mortem examination at ZSL. Unlike bottlenose dolphins, the dorsal fins of harbour porpoise are normally fairly uniform in colour and shape and rarely obtain distinguishing features. Due to this fact, photographic identification (photo ID), using shots of the dorsal fin of this species are normally of little use. However, this animal had a very noticeable healed injury to the tip of its dorsal fin making this individual clearly recognisable. The photograph of the damaged fin was distributed to individuals and organisations involved in photo ID in the hope it may have been previously sighted/catalogued. No matches have been reported to date. The cause of death was:- By-catch. SW2011/263 was a 1.25 metre male common dolphin reported at Freshwater West, Pembrokeshire on the 11th July 2011. The carcass was in a state of moderate decomposition. The carcass was found to have two recent full blubber thickness areas of skin and blubber removed from the left flank together with a full depth incision exposing the intestines. These samples were taken by persons unknown. The carcass was tagged and removed from the beach by the strandings co-ordinator in readiness for disposal by Pembrokeshire County Council.

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Plate 6. Bottlenose dolphin SW2011/331

Photo by: Gwynedd Maritime Services.

Plate 5. The MSE at Kyle of Durness, Scotland.

Following the Mass Stranding Event (MSE), at the Kyle of Durness, northern Scotland, on the 22nd July 2011 I, plus two members of the CSIP team from ZSL flew to Scotland on the 23rd July 2011 to assist the Scottish pathologist with post-mortem examinations. Of the pod of 70 long finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas) that swam into the Kyle of Durness, 39 were known to have stranded, 19 were known to have died, it is thought further dead animals may have washed out to sea. In the following two days 16 carcasses were recovered with the help of the local authority and dive boat crews. These carcasses underwent full on-site post-mortem examinations using two CSIP pathology teams. Carcasses examined consisted of 8 males and 8 females. Without the fast intervention of locals and various rescue groups it is thought the number of dead animals may have been far higher. A full report on the MSE will be produced in the near future by the SAC/CSIP. SW2011/331 was an adult bottlenose dolphin in a state of advanced decomposition found stranded at Llanbedrog, Gwynedd on the 3rd of August 2011. Unfortunately, due to the state of decomposition and the distance to the animal, this carcass was not attended as very little could be gained from this stranding. The carcass was reported by Gwynedd Maritime Services and once logged in the CSIP database Gwynedd Maritime Services was asked to recover and dispose of the remains.

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Plate 7. Bottlenose dolphin SW2011/334

Photo by: Sal Shipley.

Plate 8. Lynmouth fin whale.

SW2011/334 was a 3.2 metre male bottlenose dolphin in a state of advanced decomposition found stranded at Tywyn, Gwynedd on the 5th August 2011. The carcass was attended by CSIP volunteer Sal Shipley and skin and teeth were recovered. No further information could be gathered from this carcass. Arrangements were made with Gwynedd Maritime Services for disposal of remains. Assistance was given to the examination of an adult fin whale at Lynmouth, north Devon on the 9th August 2011. On arrival I made my way to the location given to me by Swansea Coastguard but nothing could be seen. Interestingly, the carcass remained submerged at its stranding location throughout the day until late afternoon when the tide receded and re-exposed the animal. The event proved to be a great attraction to both the local population and holiday makers. The whale was some distance from the nearest vehicular access and required an exceedingly long winch line to remove blubber to enable further investigation. We are extremely grateful to the local auxiliary coastguard who managed to keep the public clear of the winch lines during this procedure and who dealt with various other crowd control issues.

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Plate 9. Bottlenose dolphin SW2011/462.

Plate 10. Grey seal SS2011/002 at Broad Haven.

SW2011/462 was a 1.94 metre female bottlenose dolphin in a state of advanced decomposition reported stranded at Poppit Sands, Pembrokeshire on the 13th October 2011. The carcass was attended by the strandings co-ordinator and although a full post-mortem examination would be of little use with this state of advanced decomposition and a cause of death could not be attributed, samples of skin, blubber, muscle, teeth and the cardiac stomach were taken. The remains were tagged and removed to the back of the beach in preparation for collection by Pembrokeshire County Council for disposal. SS2011/002 was a 1.6 metre male grey seal reported freshly dead at Broad Haven north, Pembrokeshire on the 9th January 2011. The animal was reported as having ‘wire’ around its neck. Although not a species we currently investigate, records are kept of mortality, I attended as a matter of interest. The carcass of a freshly dead male grey seal was found on the beach with multiple strands of nylon monofilament net deeply embedded into the neck. The carcass was removed from the beach, tagged and the council informed for disposal. Cause of death was most likely blood loss caused by the un-giving strands cutting into the neck. 4.4 Live Strandings.

Five live cetacean strandings were reported in 2011. These are listed below. SW2011/043 was a 2.02 metre male common dolphin reported by Milford Haven Coastguard live-stranded at Aberystwyth, Ceredigion on the 2nd February 2011. The animal was on jagged rocks just south of the pier and was attended by members of the public and two police officers. The presence of the officers was particularly useful at this event as a well meaning inebriated individual wanted to pour water down the dolphins blowhole in the misguided belief it would help keep it alive. The animal died before my arrival and we are grateful to the public and police who recovered the carcass to the seafront promenade in readiness for my collection. Cause of death was given as:- Live Stranding.

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SW2011/208 was an adult (no sex or length info.) common dolphin reported by Glyn Jones, Barmouth Harbour Master, live-stranded at Fairbourne, Gwynedd on the 8th June 2011. The dolphin was attended by both Glyn Jones and Phil Lewis RSPCA/BDMLR and once assessed the animal was released into deeper water on an ebbing tide. No further info. SW2011/519 was thought to be a dolphin or porpoise (no sex or length info.) found live-stranded at Llandonna, Anglesey on the 7th November 2011. The animal was returned to the sea by members of the public before trained personnel could asses the stranding. No further info. The animal has been entered in the database as ‘cetacean species indeterminate’ as confirmation of species could not be achieved. SW2011/520 was thought to be a dolphin or porpoise (no sex or length info.) found live-stranded at Wisemans Bridge, Pembrokeshire also on the 7th November 2011. The animal was returned to the sea by members of the public before trained personnel could asses the stranding. No further info. The animal has been entered in the database as ‘cetacean species indeterminate’ as confirmation of species could not be achieved. SW2011/562 was a 1.83 metre female common dolphin reported by Cliff Benson (SeaTrust) live-stranded at Goodwick, Fishguard Pembrokeshire, on the 8th December 2011. The animal was supported in the water for sometime with refloats, no improvement in the animals condition was noted so a decision to euthanise was made. The carcass was transported to ZSL, via relay, for a full post-mortem examination. Cause of death was given as:- Live Stranding. 4.5 Tagging.

Occasionally dead cetaceans are encountered at sea by various research groups undergoing surveys off the Welsh coast. These groups are encouraged to retrieve any carcass whenever possible to enable it to be included and examined through the ‘Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme’. If the carcass is in a state of advanced decomposition, or cannot be recovered for any other reason, I have requested that these groups tag the carcass and leave it at sea. Numbered tags have been supplied by Marine Environmental Monitoring to each group, these consist of a yellow plastic cable-tie with a unique number allocated to each group, these have been allocated as follows. 1 Not allocated 6.

2 Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Group. (CBMWG). 3 Sea Watch New Quay. 4 Sea Trust. 5 Friends of Cardigan Bay (FoCB, Sarns Project).

The tag can be conveniently tied around the tail-stock, pectoral fin or, in the case of advanced decomposition, any exposed rib. The purpose of these tags is to stop animals being recorded twice but also it is of interest to record the date/time and position when tagged and the eventual date and location of any landfall the carcass may make. Over time this may enable a better understanding of how these carcasses are affected by tidal currents and wind direction. No carcasses were tagged in 2011.

6 Number ‘1’ was not used as it may not have been readily identified by persons subsequently reporting the stranded carcass.

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5. OTHER MARINE ANIMALS REPORTED TO THE NETWORK. 5.1 Marine Turtles.

There were two reports of stranded marine turtles and 14 reports of sightings received around the Welsh coast during 2011. The two stranded turtles were both Kemp’s Ridley turtles (Lepidochelys kempii). All sightings were Leatherback turtles (Dermochelys coriacea). These are listed below. Strandings T2011/051 was a Kemp’s Ridley turtle (Lepidochelys kempii) reported stranded dead at Llanon, Ceredigion, on the 12th December 2011. Although probably too far gone for a meaningful post-mortem examination the carcass was recovered and stored frozen for later examination in 2012. T2011/053 was a Kemp’s Ridley turtle (Lepidochelys kempii) reported stranded dead at Llantwit Major, Vale of Glamorgan, on the 28th December 2011. The carcass was recovered and stored frozen for later full post-mortem examination in 2012. Sightings T2011/002 was a Leatherback turtle reported alive 5 miles NW of Grassholm, Pembrokeshire, on the 2nd of June 2011. T2011/005 was a Leatherback turtle reported alive 5 miles off the north side of Skomer, Pembrokeshire, on the 9th of July 2011. T2011/010 was a Leatherback turtle reported alive at Port Eynon on the Gower, Swansea, on the 29th of July 2011. T2011/011 was a Leatherback turtle reported alive 1km off the Taf and Towy esturies, Carmarthenshire, on the 23rd of July 2011. T2011/015 was a Leatherback turtle reported alive 20 metres from Laugharne Sands, Carmarthenshire, on the 6th of August 2011. T2011/016 was a Leatherback turtle reported alive 1 km from coast near Porth Dafarch, Holyhead, Anglesey, on the 2nd of August 2011. T2011/017 was a Leatherback turtle reported alive near the Witches cauldron, Ceibwr Bay, Pembrokeshire, on the 4th of August 2011. T2011/019 was a Leatherback turtle reported alive off the coast near Holyhead, Anglesey, on the 8th of August 2011. T2011/020 was a Leatherback turtle reported alive off St Govan's Head, Pembrokeshire, on the 19th of August 2011. T2011/022 was a Leatherback turtle reported alive 400yds off Coppit Hall, Pembrokeshire, on the 19th of August 2011. T2011/032 was a Leatherback turtle reported alive close to shore at Martin's haven, Pembrokeshire, on the 28th of August 2011. T2011/036 was a Leatherback turtle reported alive 300 metres off of Amroth, Pembrokeshire, on the 30th of August 2011. T2011/041 was a Leatherback turtle reported alive off Strumble Head, Pembrokeshire, on the 17th of September 2011. T2011/045 was a Leatherback turtle reported alive at Mwnt, Ceredigion, at the end of August 2011. Further marine turtle reports outside of Wales can be found in the British Isles & Republic of Ireland Marine Turtle Strandings & Sightings Annual Reports at; http://www.strandings.com/Wales.html

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5.2 Sharks.

As of 2007, Defra requested that stranded basking shark (Cetorhinus maximus) investigations be included within the project. No sharks were reported during 2011. 6. SAMPLES. The normal procedure for the taking of samples is from animals that have been taken for post-mortem examination. Additional to this, samples (mostly skin, muscle & teeth) have been taken from a further 14 animals during 2011 by the Strandings Co-ordinator and volunteers. Animals sampled are listed below. 2 bottlenose dolphins. 1 common dolphin. 10 harbour porpoises. 1 Risso’s dolphin. One bottlenose dolphin (SW2011/462) and the Risso’s dolphin (SW2011/560) underwent more detailed sampling by the strandings co-ordinator. 7. FUNDING. Marine Environmental Monitoring continued to be funded in Wales by The Welsh Assembly Government (WAG)/ Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) contract during 2011. Defra, through the Zoological Society, London, continued to cover transportation costs and the Environment Agency also maintained support of a high-powered microscope through 2011. 8. PUBLICITY. The Strandings Web-site has been maintained to provide details of the ‘UK Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme’, although this is intended primarily for Wales. The pages can be viewed at www.strandings.com/ A ‘Seal’ and ‘Turtle’ page have been created on the site and related information and annual reports are posted here:- Seals: www.strandings.com/Seals.html Turtles: www.strandings.com/Turtlepage.html Posters and leaflets produced to increase awareness of the project have continued to be distributed throughout the coast of Wales. Turtle Codes have also been distributed throughout the Welsh coast. The UK CSIP web-site can be found at www.ukstrandings.org A new leaflet has been produced promoting the new UK National reporting telephone number, further details on this can be found in 3. MATERIALS AND METHODS . The leaflet is also attached and can be viewed at Appendix 4. 9. LEGISLATION. In 2007 new legislation came in to force, the "Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c) (amendment) Regulations 2007". This makes changes to the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c) Regulations 1994.

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It is now prohibited by regulation 39(2)(a) and (b) to posses and transport dead specimens and/or derivatives of species listed on Annex IV to the EC Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) without a licence. Annex IV includes all cetaceans and all marine turtles. Please note the "50 year" date applied to "worked specimens" of CITES listed species has now changed - from 1 June 1947 as previously used, to 3 March 1947. http://animalhealth.defra.gov.uk/cites/news/120131-cites-antiques-derogation.htm For research and educational purposes the current licensing authorities are the three government statutory conservation bodies, Countryside Council for Wales, Natural England and Scottish Natural Heritage. For possession of samples for research or educational purposes, licence cover should be obtained via the use of existing general licences or a specific licence. Information and application forms are available from the relevant organisations listed above. 10. EQUIPMENT. The National Strandings reporting answer-phone 01348 875000 has now been moved from Fishguard to Llechryd and subsequently changed to 01239 683033. This now becomes part of the stepped menu system explained in 3. MATERIALS AND METHODS but can still be accessed and contacted directly if needed. The preferred method of contact for the general public is through the 0800 6520333 number which should filter out calls on live animals directly to British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) etc. The 01348 875000 number is being maintained with a ‘number changed divert’ for a, ‘as yet’, unspecified period. The ATV Quad bike was replaced in July 2011 due to the old ATV becoming unserviceable due to salt water corrosion. 11. TRAVEL. In excess of 7,769 miles were covered on the project in retrieval and transportation of animals in 2011. The European Cetacean Society conference in Cadiz, Spain 19th - 24th March was attended. The Military Underwater Sound Stakeholders Forum in Southampton was attended 19th May and 23rd November in London. The BDMLR conference in Bristol 4th June was attended. Assistance was given to SAC/CSIP Inverness 23rd – 25th July with the Durness MSE. Assistance was given to ZSL/AHVLA/CSIP with the Lynmouth fin whale 9th August. A Mass Stranding Workshop was attended in Tampa, Florida together with SMM conference 26th November – 3rd December 2011. 12. ADMINISTRATION. Copies of post-mortem examination reports were posted out to finders and associated interested parties concerning each relevant stranding. 13. CAUSE OF DEATH. The provisional causes of death for the 23 selected cetaceans in a suitable condition for necropsy in 2011 are given on the next page in Table 5.

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These carcasses underwent a full post-mortem examination at the Zoological Society of London (ZSL). Please note these are provisional causes of death, and may change when additional laboratory analyses have been conducted. Table 5.

14. LIST OF SCIENTIFIC NAMES USED IN THIS REPORT. Table 6.

Common name. Scientific name.

Bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatusCommon dolphin Delphinus delphisFin whale Balaenoptera physalusGrey seal Halichoerus grypusHarbour porpoise Phocoena phocoenaKemp's Ridley turtle Lepidochelys kempiiLeatherback turtle Dermochelys coriaceaLong-finned pilot whale Globicephala melasMinke whale Balaenoptera acutorostrataRisso's dolphin Grampus griseus

SW Number Family/Genus Species County Locality Cause of Death

SW2011/035 Phocoena phocoena Anglesey Holyhead Physical trauma, bottlenose dolphin attack.SW2011/042 Phocoena phocoena Gwynedd Tywyn Starvation.SW2011/043 Delphinus delphis Ceredigion Aberystwyth Live-stranding.SW2011/067 Phocoena phocoena Pembrokeshire Nolton Haven Starvation.SW2011/109 Phocoena phocoena Anglesey Porth Cwyfan Pending collection from north Wales.SW2011/149 Phocoena phocoena Gwynedd Black Rock Sands By-catch.SW2011/150 Delphinus delphis Gwynedd Harlech Live-stranding.SW2011/166 Phocoena phocoena Ceredigion New Quay By-catch.SW2011/182 Phocoena phocoena Gwynedd Barmouth Physical trauma, bottlenose dolphin attack.SW2011/184 Phocoena phocoena Ceredigion New Quay Physical trauma.SW2011/185 Tursiops truncatus Ceredigion Aberaeron Generalised bacterial infection.SW2011/194 Phocoena phocoena Pembrokeshire Porth y Rhaw Physical trauma, Boat/Ship strike.SW2011/205 Phocoena phocoena Carmarthenshire Pembrey Starvation. (neonate).SW2011/207 Phocoena phocoena Carmarthenshire Pendine Starvation. (neonate).SW2011/216 Phocoena phocoena Carmarthenshire St Ishmael By-catch.SW2011/239 Phocoena phocoena Ceredigion Tresaith Physical trauma, bottlenose dolphin attack.SW2011/255 Phocoena phocoena Carmarthenshire Pembrey Starvation. (neonate).SW2011/295 Delphinus delphis Pembrokeshire Settlands Live-stranding.SW2011/410 Phocoena phocoena Pembrokeshire Abercastle Pleuritis (unilateral).SW2011/430 Phocoena phocoena Ceredigion Ynyslas Physical trauma, bottlenose dolphin attack.SW2011/452 Phocoena phocoena Neath Port Talbot Aberavon Starvation.SW2011/562 Delphinus delphis Pembrokeshire Goodwick Live-stranding.SW2011/575 Phocoena phocoena Pembrokeshire Milford Beach Pneumonia, Parasitic.

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15. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS. Marine Environmental Monitoring wishes to acknowledge the following: Paul Newman, Lin Gander, Sal Shipley, Janet Baxter, Steve Hartley, Sarah Perry, Cliff Benson, Gemma Veneruso, Dan Worth, Ron Jones, Ben Sampson, Gavin Hall, Wyn Parry, Clive Morgan, Judith Oakley and Nia Jones for their support with the project and help in retrieving animals. Strandings Network volunteers, too numerous to mention for their help confirming, reporting and securing animals for collection. Swansea Coastguard, Milford Haven Coastguard, Holyhead Coastguard for reporting strandings plus the many auxiliary coastguards who assisted in searching, securing carcasses and recoveries etc. Welsh Government/Countryside Council for Wales & Defra for providing funds towards the project. I would like to offer my very special thanks to Robin Pratt and Jemma and Ray Lerwill who without their support the marine mammal strandings project in Wales, as is, would probably not be in existence. In the early nineties, when very little funding was available in Wales for investigating causes of death in marine mammals and turtles, (cetaceans, seals and turtles) a facility was provided at Fishguard, Pembrokeshire, enabling under-cover mechanical handling, freezer storage (supported by CCW), washing down facilities and office space which housed the Welsh national reporting telephone line for nearly 20 years. Under the cover of the publicity of the new UK national strandings reporting line 0800 6520333, I have taken the opportunity to move the Wales reporting line from Fishguard to my home base. I and the CSIP team are extremely grateful to Robin, Jemma and Ray for this support, commitment and foresight towards monitoring the marine megafauna on the Welsh coast. 16. APPENDICES. Appendix 1. Cetacean stranding data 2011. Appendix 2. Marine turtle data 2011. Appendix 3. Seal data 2011. Appendix 4. CSIP leaflet.

Appendix 1.

SW Number PM Family/Genus species Sex Length Condition Date County Locality Grid Reported by CommentSW2011/008 Phocoena phocoena F 1.55 moderate decomposition 11-Jan-11 Anglesey Benllech SH528821 Peter Evans Disposed of by LA.SW2011/009 Delphinus delphis ? ? slight decomposition 17-Jan-11 Gwynedd Hells Mouth SH244283 Dan Worth Good condition adult animal, LA unable to recover carcass from stranding location.SW2011/034 Delphinus delphis ? 1.90 moderate decomposition 21-Jan-11 Carmarthenshire Pembrey SN350050 RAF Pembrey Unable to recover carcass due to active range.SW2011/035 Y Phocoena phocoena M ? 28-Jan-11 Anglesey Holyhead SH248833 Holyhead C.G.SW2011/042 Y Phocoena phocoena ? ? fresh 01-Feb-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SN581998 Graham CollierSW2011/043 Y Delphinus delphis M 2.02 live 02-Feb-11 Ceredigion Aberystwyth SN580819 Milford Haven C.G.SW2011/066 Delphinus delphis M ? fresh 07-Feb-11 Carmarthenshire Pembrey SN380010 Wyn Parry, Park Ranger Carcass buried on beach as SC was at ZSL and unable to attend.SW2011/067 Y Phocoena phocoena F ? fresh 16-Feb-11 Pembrokeshire Nolton Haven SM859185 Steve John PCCSW2011/109 Y Phocoena phocoena F 1.38 fresh 14-Mar-11 Anglesey Porth Cwyfan SH338683 Mandy McMath Stored frozen at CCW Bangor.SW2011/129 Phocoena phocoena ? 4' ? 21-Mar-11 Swansea Rhossili SS413900 Andrew Minney Swansea CC Unable to attend as at ECS Conference in Cadiz.SW2011/133 Phocoena phocoena ? 4' slight decomposition 03-Apr-11 Carmarthenshire Pendine SN260074 Tony Grey Carm CC Extensive scavenger damage so unsuitable for pme.SW2011/148 Phocoena phocoena ? 1.21 moderate decomposition 05-Apr-11 Gwynedd Black Rock Sands SH530370 Maureen McKenzie Extensive scavenger damage so unsuitable for pme.SW2011/149 Y Phocoena phocoena F ? moderate decomposition 06-Apr-11 Gwynedd Black Rock Sands SH530370 Neal LunnSW2011/150 Y Delphinus delphis F ? fresh 07-Apr-11 Gwynedd Harlech SH570310 David O'neal Portmadog HMSW2011/154 Phocoena phocoena F 1.42 fresh 07-Apr-11 Denbighshire Pensarn Beach SH950790 Ann Corkett Retro report found in newspaper by Ann Corket15/04/2011.SW2011/166 Y Phocoena phocoena M 1.45 slight decomposition 24-Apr-11 Ceredigion New Quay SN387605 Steve HartleySW2011/180 Phocoena phocoena F ? moderate decomposition 10-May-11 Carmarthenshire Pendine SN265072 MOD Pendine Extensive (scavenger/prop?) damage making the carcass unsuitable for pme. Foetus SW2011/181 found with the adult.SW2011/181 Phocoena phocoena ? ? moderate decomposition 10-May-11 Carmarthenshire Pendine SN265072 MOD Pendine Foetus found with SW2011/180.SW2011/182 Y Phocoena phocoena F ? slight decomposition 13-May-11 Gwynedd Barmouth SH605165 Glyn Jones Barmouth HMSW2011/184 Y Phocoena phocoena M ? slight decomposition 14-May-11 Ceredigion New Quay SN402598 Sarah PerrySW2011/185 Y Tursiops truncatus F ? fresh 14-May-11 Ceredigion Aberaeron SN455632 Steve HartleySW2011/193 Phocoena phocoena ? 1.35 advanced decomposition 21-May-11 Neath Port Talbot Aberavon SS740900 Richard RobertsSW2011/194 Y Phocoena phocoena F 1.57 slight decomposition 23-May-11 Pembrokeshire Porth y Rhaw SM786243 Lou LuddingtonSW2011/195 Phocoena phocoena ? ? mod/advanced decomposition 25-May-11 Pembrokeshire Caer Bwdy SM766244 Milford Haven C.G. Reported as headless.SW2011/200 Phocoena phocoena ? ? ? 28-May-11 Ceredigion Borth SN607907 Delayed report due to new comms set-up. Nothing found on 30th May.SW2011/205 Y Phocoena phocoena ? ? slight decomposition 07-Jun-11 Carmarthenshire Pembrey SS405995 Wyn Parry, Park Ranger Delayed report due to new comms set-up. Nothing found on 30th May.SW2011/207 Y Phocoena phocoena M ? slight decomposition 08-Jun-11 Carmarthenshire Pendine SN240077 Stephen Morgan EA Delayed report due to new comms set-up. Nothing found on 30th May.SW2011/208 Delphinus delphis ? adult live 08-Jun-11 Gwynedd Fairbourne SH610124 Glyn Jones Barmouth HM Released into deeper water by Glyn Jones/Phil Lewis on an ebbing tide, no further info.SW2011/211 Phocoena phocoena F adult mod/advanced decomposition 10-Jun-11 Gwynedd Aberdyfi SN592971 Nigel Dudley Disposed of by LA.SW2011/212 Phocoena phocoena F adult advanced decomposition 10-Jun-11 Gwynedd Aberdyfi SN592971 Nigel Dudley Disposed of by LA.SW2011/213 Phocoena phocoena ? 0.88 mod/advanced decomposition 11-Jun-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SN579999 Milford Haven C.G. Disposed of by LA.SW2011/216 Y Phocoena phocoena F ? slight decomposition 13-Jun-11 Carmarthenshire St Ishmael SN367071 Haydyn Morgan FOSW2011/217 Phocoena phocoena M 1.50 advanced decomposition 14-Jun-11 Ceredigion Llangrannog SN311544 Disposed of by LA.SW2011/218 Phocoena phocoena F 1.52 fresh 15-Jun-11 Ceredigion Aberystwyth SN583820 Gaina CCC Sent for disposal as no storage options.SW2011/219 Delphinus delphis ? ? ? 15-Jun-11 Pembrokeshire Between Skokholm & St Ann's Head. SM768058 Tom Warrell via Danielle GibasSW2011/234 Phocoena phocoena M 1.65 fresh 19-Jun-11 Swansea Rhossili SS413882 Swansea C.G. Sent for disposal as no storage options.SW2011/235 Phocoena phocoena ? ? ? 20-Jun-11 Gwynedd Aberdyfi SN600962 Anthony Aberdyfi HM Disposed of by LA.SW2011/236 Phocoena phocoena ? ? ? 20-Jun-11 Ceredigion Tresaith SN295530 Disposed of by LA.SW2011/237 Phocoena phocoena ? ? ? 20-Jun-11 Gwynedd Fairbourne SH615148 Victoria Lloyd Disposed of by LA.SW2011/238 Phocoena phocoena M ? mod/advanced decomposition 24-Jun-11 Ceredigion Ynyslas SN604930 Species, sex etc confirmed by Janet Baxter. Carcass buried by Rangers.SW2011/239 Y Phocoena phocoena M ? fresh 28-Jun-11 Ceredigion Tresaith SN278518 Milford Haven C.G.SW2011/242 Phocoena phocoena F adult moderate decomposition 30-Jun-11 Neath Port Talbot Aberavon SS740900 Elen Richards Disposed of by LA.SW2011/243 Phocoena phocoena ? ? ? 06-Jul-11 Swansea Three Cliffs Bay SS530876 Rhodry Mason Judith Oakley contacted to confirm, nothing found, presumed carcass moved by tide.SW2011/247 Phocoena phocoena M ? fresh 08-Jul-11 Gwynedd Dinas Dinlle SH435568 Gill Birks Disposed of by LA.SW2011/255 Y Phocoena phocoena F ? slight/moderate decomposition 09-Jul-11 Carmarthenshire Pembrey SN369033 Haydn MorganSW2011/260 Phocoena phocoena ? 0.815 advanced decomposition 10-Jul-11 Carmarthenshire Pembrey SS405993 Simeon Jones Disposed of.SW2011/261 Phocoena phocoena ? ? mod/advanced decomposition 11-Jul-11 Neath Port Talbot Aberavon SS735902SW2011/262 Phocoena phocoena ? ? ? 11-Jul-11 Gwynedd Pwllheli SH398358 Brian Jones EA Species confirmed by Pwllheli HM. Carcass to be disposed of.SW2011/263 Delphinus delphis M 1.25 moderate decomposition 11-Jul-11 Pembrokeshire Freshwater West SM880005 Dave Pugh Samples taken by persons unknown. Tagged and council informed.SW2011/292 Phocoena phocoena ? 0.63 ? 26-Jun-11 Swansea Caswell Bay SS592875 Chris House via Judith Oakley Retro report 15th July.SW2011/293 Phocoena phocoena F 1.60 mod/advanced decomposition 16-Jul-11 Pembrokeshire Traeth Llyfn SM802320 Dorian Williams Skin & muscle taken, carcass tagged and left on beach as limited access.SW2011/294 Phocoena phocoena ? ? ? 18-Jul-11 Ceredigion Aberystwyth SN583826 Mr Evans via MHCG Disposed of by Ceredigion CC before my arrival.SW2011/295 Y Delphinus delphis F ? slight/moderate decomposition 18-Jul-11 Pembrokeshire Settlands SM858132 Milford Haven C.G.SW2011/296 Phocoena phocoena ? ? advanced decomposition 19-Jul-11 Swansea Bracelet Bay SS631872 Swansea C.G. Swansea council advised for disposal.SW2011/297 Phocoena phocoena ? ? skeletal remains 10-Jul-11 Carmarthenshire Pendine SN267072 Simeon Jones Retro report.SW2011/299 Phocoena phocoena F 1.14 slight/moderate decomposition 20-Jul-11 Ceredigion Llanon SN504665 Mike Farmer Disposed of by LA.SW2011/323 Phocoena phocoena ? ? ? 24-Jul-11 Pembrokeshire Broad Haven SM860140 Brendan Slater Unable to attend as assisting with pilot whale MSE in Scotland.SW2011/324 a ? ? advanced decomposition 28-Jul-11 Gwynedd Llwyngwril SH583098 Bethan Graham via Danielle SW Digital image received.SW2011/325 Phocoena phocoena ? ? ? 29-Jul-11 Pembrokeshire Monkstone Point SN150032 Matthew via Liz NHMSW2011/331 Tursiops truncatus ? adult advanced decomposition 03-Aug-11 Gwynedd Llanbedrog SH335310 Barry Davies Gwynedd CC Unfortunately too far gone for any useful samples.SW2011/332 Phocoena phocoena ? ? ? 04-Aug-11 Gwynedd Harlech SH570313SW2011/334 Tursiops truncatus M 3.2 advanced decomposition 05-Aug-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SH573014 Attended by Sal Shipley.SW2011/335 Phocoena phocoena ? 0.61 mod/advanced decomposition 06-Aug-11 Pembrokeshire Amroth SN164070 David PennySW2011/336 Phocoena phocoena F 1.47 advanced decomposition 07-Aug-11 Ceredigion Morfa Buchan SN563767 Emily Sea Watch Carcass tagged and left on beach as limited access.SW2011/337 Phocoena phocoena M 1.32 advanced decomposition 07-Aug-11 Ceredigion Morfa Buchan SN563773 Emily Sea Watch Carcass tagged and left on beach as limited access.SW2011/338 Phocoena phocoena ? ? ? 07-Aug-11 Ceredigion Morfa Buchan SN563773 Emily Sea Watch Nothing found.SW2011/349 Phocoena phocoena M ? advanced decomposition 27-Jul-11 Swansea Rhossili SS412900 Andrew Osbourne Retro report 27th July.SW2011/351 Phocoena phocoena ? 0.91 moderate decomposition 08-Aug-11 Swansea Horton Beach SS475854 Aiden Gillett via Judith Oakley Retro report 10th Aug. Possible prop damage diagonally from tip of nose to near pec fin.SW2011/372 Phocoena phocoena ? 1.50 advanced decomposition 07-Aug-11 Gwynedd Llanbedrog SH341325 Martin Jones Retro report 14th Aug. Digital image received.SW2011/373 Cetacean sp. Indet. ? ? ? 21-Aug-11 Gwynedd Caerddaniel, Barmouth SH595185 Reported as a dolphin. Carcass possibly taken by the tide.SW2011/374 Phocoena phocoena ? ? ? 24-Aug-11 Pembrokeshire Freshwater West SM880005 RNLI Lifeguards Nothing found 25th August.SW2011/377 Phocoena phocoena F 0.97 slight decomposition 25-Aug-11 Pembrokeshire Freshwater West SM880005 RNLI Lifeguards Extensive scavenger damage.SW2011/379 a M 1.82 moderate decomposition 26-Aug-11 Carmarthenshire Pembrey SS400995 Wyn Parry, Park Ranger Buried on beach.

Marine Environmental Monitoring Cetaceans 2011 Page 1

Appendix 1.

SW Number PM Family/Genus species Sex Length Condition Date County Locality Grid Reported by CommentSW2011/380 Phocoena phocoena ? ? advanced decomposition 27-Aug-11 Ceredigion Traeth Gwyn, New Quay SN400597 Gemma Veneruso Not attended.SW2011/381 Phocoena phocoena M 1.36 advanced decomposition 28-Aug-11 Ceredigion Clarach SN586837 RNLI Lifeguards via MHCG Samples taken, carcass removed to council depot.SW2011/382 Delphinus delphis ? 1.89 advanced decomposition 28-Aug-11 Ceredigion Mwnt SN193519 NT WardenSW2011/387 Phocoena phocoena ? adult fresh 04-Aug-11 Ceredigion Llanrhystud SN526698 Holidaymaker Originally reported as a bottlenose dolphin, nothing found. Digital image later sent by informant on arrival home in the Netherlands.SW2011/388 Phocoena phocoena M adult moderate decomposition 30-Aug-11 Gwynedd Barmouth SH608159 Anthony Schorch via Barry Davies Carcass disposed of.SW2011/393 Phocoena phocoena ? ? advanced decomposition 31-Aug-11 Gwynedd Criccieth SH495376 Iago Thomas Carcass disposed of.SW2011/394 Cetacean sp. Indet. ? ? ? 01-Sep-11 Pembrokeshire Trevallen SR974939 Marcia Gordelli Recovered to back of beach by finder but later found to be gone!SW2011/395 Phocoena phocoena ? ? ? 01-Sep-11 Pembrokeshire Ceibwr SN103456 Patrick Beamont Carcass floating between Ceibwr and witches cauldron.SW2011/396 Grampus griseus ? ? advanced decomposition 01-Sep-11 Ceredigion Aberarth SN486646 Left on beach as fairly remote and limited access.SW2011/397 Phocoena phocoena ? ? advanced decomposition 06-Sep-11 Ceredigion Ynyslas SN603937 Janet Baxter Tail-stock only, possible prop injury.SW2011/398 Phocoena phocoena ? ? advanced decomposition 06-Sep-11 Carmarthenshire Pembrey SS400995 Wyn Parry, Park Ranger Buried on beach.SW2011/409 Phocoena phocoena F 1.04 slight/moderate decomposition 09-Sep-11 Ceredigion Tan y bwlch SN578807 Matthew Haig Too heavily scavenged for pme. Carcass tagged and removed to car park for disposal.SW2011/410 Y Phocoena phocoena F ? slight decomposition 11-Sep-11 Pembrokeshire Abercastle SM851338 Martin via Dan WorthSW2011/422 Phocoena phocoena ? ? ? 15-Sep-11 Pembrokeshire Freshwater West SM882002 Council informed for disposal as unable to attend.SW2011/423 Phocoena phocoena M 1.02 slight decomposition 19-Sep-11 Ceredigion Llanina SN404598 Gemma Veneruso Too heavily scavenged for pme. Carcass removed to for disposal.SW2011/424 Phocoena phocoena ? 1.67 advanced decomposition 20-Sep-11 Neath Port Talbot Aberavon SS740900 Swansea C.G. Carcass checked by Judith Oakley.SW2011/426 Phocoena phocoena M 1.62 advanced decomposition 17-Sep-11 Gwynedd Aberdyfi SN589976 Sal ShipleySW2011/427 Phocoena phocoena M 1.60 advanced decomposition 18-Sep-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SH566024 Sal ShipleySW2011/428 Phocoena phocoena M 1.40 advanced decomposition 20-Sep-11 Gwynedd Aberdyfi SN605955 Sal ShipleySW2011/429 Phocoena phocoena F 1.34 advanced decomposition 20-Sep-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SN983587 Sal ShipleySW2011/430 Y Phocoena phocoena F ? slight decomposition 21-Sep-11 Ceredigion Ynyslas SN604921 Sian Evans CCWSW2011/431 Phocoena phocoena M ? moderate decomposition 22-Sep-11 Gwynedd Black Rock Sands SH530370 David O'Neil Portmadoc HM Carcass left for disposal.SW2011/439 Phocoena phocoena ? 1.00 advanced decomposition 22-Sep-11 Gwynedd Abererch SH415356 Holyhead C.G. Pwllheli HM informed for disposal.SW2011/440 Grampus griseus ? 1.00 mod/advanced decomposition 22-Sep-11 Gwynedd Abererch SH420356 Holyhead C.G. Species confirmed by photo. Pwllheli HM informed for disposal.SW2011/449 Phocoena phocoena M 1.39 advanced decomposition 09-Oct-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SN580996 John Dellany Sal Shipley contacted for details. Carcass disposed of.SW2011/450 Phocoena phocoena F 1.60 fresh 09-Oct-11 Gwynedd Barmouth SH607160 Holyhead C.G. Disposed of by Gwynedd CC.SW2011/451 Phocoena phocoena F 1.00 advanced decomposition 09-Oct-11 Gwynedd Fairbourne SH610124 Beverly Wilkins Carcass investigated by Glyn Jones Barmouth HM and removed for disposal.SW2011/452 Y Phocoena phocoena M ? slight decomposition 10-Oct-11 Neath Port Talbot Aberavon SS740900 Clive Rodgers, Neath Port TalbotSW2011/456 Phocoena phocoena ? 1.20 advanced decomposition 10-Oct-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SH575008 Sal ShipleySW2011/457 a ? ? advanced decomposition 08-Oct-11 Bridgend Kenfig SS781820 Nick Murphy via Danielle SWFSW2011/462 Tursiops truncatus F 1.94 advanced decomposition 13-Oct-11 Pembrokeshire Poppit Sands SN151488 Dan Worth Skin, blubber, muscle, teeth, PCF and stomach taken. Carcass tagged and LA informed for disposal.SW2011/497 Phocoena phocoena M mod/advanced decomposition 26-Oct-11 Swansea Swansea SS652922 Amanda Skull via Lyndsey Maiden WTSWW Tail-fluke missing. Council informed for disposal.SW2011/498 Cetacean sp. Indet. ? ? 26-Oct-11 Pembrokeshire Freshwater East SS024980 Milford Haven C.G. Nothing found.SW2011/499 Delphinus delphis M 2.40 moderate decomposition 30-Oct-11 Swansea Swansea SS663922 Nick Buttland Attended by Judith Oakley, skull taken.SW2011/519 Cetacean sp. Indet. ? ? live 07-Nov-11 Anglesey Llandonna SH570810 Dolphin or porpoise returned to the sea by members of the public, no further info.SW2011/520 Cetacean sp. Indet. ? ? live 07-Nov-11 Pembrokeshire Wiseman's Bridge SN146060 Dolphin or porpoise returned to the sea by members of the public, likely to be SW2011/522.SW2011/522 Phocoena phocoena F 1.64 moderate decomposition 14-Nov-11 Pembrokeshire Wiseman's Bridge SN146060 Milford Haven C.G. Likely to be SW2011/520. Too much scavenger damage for pm, recovered, tagged and left for Pembs CC.SW2011/559 Delphinus delphis ? ? slight decomposition 03-Dec-11 Gwynedd Harlech SH565320 Brian Collins Unable to attend.SW2011/560 Grampus griseus F 3.15 advanced decomposition 05-Dec-11 Ceredigion Tresaith SN276515 Mrs Mucklelow Animal examined on-site by SC. Full suite of samples taken.SW2011/562 Y Delphinus delphis F ? live 08-Dec-11 Pembrokeshire Goodwick SM949379 Cliff Benson Euthanased.SW2011/569 Phocoena phocoena M 1.53 slight/moderate decomposition 11-Dec-11 Gwynedd Porth Coleman SH207350 Pete Wilkinson Unable to recover carcass from beach, samples taken and carcass dragged to back of beach and tagged.SW2011/571 Cetacean sp. Indet. ? ? ? 16-Nov-11 Pembrokeshire Tenby SN134008 Milford Haven C.G. Reported as dolphin or porpoise, tail-less and scavenger damage so not attended.SW2011/572 Phocoena phocoena ? ? fresh 17-Nov-11 Glamorgan Aberthaw ST023656 Peter Howlett Not attended due to restricted access. V of G ecologist contacted to gather further info but no reply.SW2011/574 Cetacean sp. Indet. ? ? advanced decomposition 15-Dec-11 Pembrokeshire Castlemartin SR889971 Milford Haven C.G. Photographs received from Pablo PCNP.SW2011/575 Y Phocoena phocoena M ? slight decomposition 15-Dec-11 Pembrokeshire Milford Beach SM905057 Angela MurphySW2011/594 Phocoena phocoena M ? advanced decomposition 31-Dec-11 Carmarthenshire Pembrey SS398998 Gavin Hall, Park Ranger Buried on beach.

Marine Environmental Monitoring Cetaceans 2011 Page 2

Appendix 2.

RecordKey PM peciesCoightStranAliveDead StartDate County Location GridReference Notes ReportByT2011/002 LBT SEA ALIVE 02/06/2011 PEMBROKESHIRE 5 miles NW of Grassholm SM536124 Seen 200 metres away. Slight sea strong tide. Large back shape, too large for seal, no fin - probable turtle. Dave Hill, 'Voyages of discoveryT2011/005 LBT SEA ALIVE 09/07/2011 PEMBROKESHIRE 5 miles off north side Skomer SM727180 Seen 6 metres from yacht - surfaced 3 times then dived Lorraine BrookesT2011/010 LBT SEA ALIVE 29/07/2011 SWANSEA Port Eynon SS475845 Seen by Gower Coast Adventure boat Gower Coast AdventureT2011/011 LBT SEA ALIVE 23/07/2011 CARMARTHENSHIRE 1km off Taf and Towy esturies SN345085 10 m from observer. Several pics taken. Daniel HeathT2011/015 LBT SEA ALIVE 06/08/2011 CARMARTHENSHIRE 20 metres from Laugharne Sands SN331784 seen while sampling jellyfish.1.5-1.7m length,deep scar left side dorsal ride. Shallow wate Fergal GlynnT2011/016 LBT SEA ALIVE 02/08/2011 ANGLESEY 1 km from coast. Near Porth Dafarch, Holyhead. SH230790 Seen 2 m from boat by Kayaking instructor. Heading southerly direction out to sea Grant MitchellT2011/017 LBT SEA ALIVE 04/08/2011 PEMBROKESHIRE Witches cauldron, Ceibwr Bay Newport Pembs SN091442 Seen 15m from headland. Seen 60 m from observer Pam AshcroftT2011/019 LBT SEA ALIVE 08/08/2011 ANGLESEY off coast near Holyhead SH226794 Seen from boat. Swimming. 2m long Steve MilesT2011/020 LBT SEA ALIVE 19/08/2011 PEMBROKESHIRE off St Govan's Head SR975925 Seen from land while fishing - One metre across making good headway near rocks against tide in SW direction David Jones, PCFT2011/022 LBT SEA ALIVE 19/08/2011 PEMBROKESHIRE 400yds off Coppit Hall, between Saundersfoot SN153044 Heard then saw huge turtle surface 5 ft from kyack whilst fishing - dived and not seen again Steve Williams?T2011/032 LBT SEA ALIVE 28/08/2011 PEMBROKESHIRE near shore Martin's haven SM793037 photos of animal 12 ft long small head, long neck, stiff body M HartT2011/036 LBT SEA ALIVE 30/08/2011 PEMBROKESHIRE 300m off bay near Amroth SN170065 Seen while 4 boats kayaking 3m away - turtle appeared to follow and interact. Gary BurdettT2011/041 LBT SEA ALIVE 17/09/2011 PEMBROKESHIRE off Strumble Head SM895413 Seen facing northerly direction with bins while bird/sea watching. Inside tide race 2-300m offshore, size of a Ford Fiesta Richard StonierT2011/045 LBT SEA ALIVE 20/082011 CEREDIGION Mwnt SN191520 Seen by holiday maker kyaking in bay in evenin NT WardenT2011/051 Y KR ST DEAD 12/12/2011 CEREDIGION Llanon SN500659 Photograph sent with report but nothing found next day. Recovered by John Gorman and collected by Rod Penrose 31/12/2011. Held by MEM John GormanT2011/053 Y KR ST DEAD 28/12/2011 Vale of Glamorgan Llantwit Major beach SS955674 dead on beach. Hidden and retrieved next day Rebecca John

Marine Environmental Monitoring Turtles 2011 Page 1

Appendix 3.

SS_No pm species Sex d-tip to Condition Date County Locality Grid_ref reported by CommentSS2011/002 Halichoerus grypus M fresh 09-Jan-11 Pembrokeshire Broad Haven SM861140 Mari Williams KWT Net cut into neck, recovered to slipway. L A informed for disposal.SS2011/006 Halichoerus grypus ? pup advanced decomposition 16-Jan-11 Gwynedd Aberdaron beach SH170263 Andy Roberts One of 2 pups on beach. L A informed for disposal.SS2011/007 Halichoerus grypus ? pup advanced decomposition 16-Jan-11 Gwynedd Aberdaron beach SH170263 Andy Roberts Two of 2 pups on beach. L A informed for disposal.SS2011/008 Halichoerus grypus M fresh 18-Jan-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SH578003 Julia BDMLR Head damage. L A informed for disposal.SS2011/009 Halichoerus grypus ? advanced decomposition 18-Jan-11 Pembrokeshire Newport SN053405 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/016 Halichoerus grypus ? 21-Jan-11 Ceredigion Ynyslas SN603940 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/017 Halichoerus grypus ? 26-Jan-11 Gwynedd Criccieth SH503380 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/028 Halichoerus grypus ? 14-Feb-11 Gwynedd Hells Mouth SH260280 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/065.1 Halichoerus grypus ? juv 06-Apr-11 Swansea Oxwich SS510873 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/065.2 Halichoerus grypus ? juv 06-Apr-11 Swansea Oxwich SS510873 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/089 Halichoerus grypus ? 17-May-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SH576005 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/090 Halichoerus grypus ? fresh 19-May-11 Swansea Llangennith SS405915 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/091 Halichoerus grypus ? 19-May-11 Ceredigion Llochtyn Bay SN320558 Gary Hartley Floating just offshore, seen from Ermol 5.SS2011/092 Halichoerus grypus ? 20-May-11 Ceredigion Borth SN607900 Matthew Richards L A informed for disposal.SS2011/093 Halichoerus grypus ? adult 24-May-11 Ceredigion Llanon SN507670 Roger Merry Reported as headless. L A informed for disposal.SS2011/094 Halichoerus grypus ? 25-May-11 Ceredigion Mwnt SN194519 NT L A informed for disposal.SS2011/095 Halichoerus grypus ? 25-May-11 Swansea Langland Bay SS607873 Clive Morgan SCC L A informed for disposal.SS2011/099 Halichoerus grypus ? 31-May-11 Ceredigion Clarach SN586840 EA - MHCG L A informed for disposal.SS2011/097 Halichoerus grypus ? 01-Jun-11 Pembrokeshire Ceibwr SN109458 Pembs Council L A informed for disposal.SS2011/096 Halichoerus grypus ? 02-Jun-11 Pembrokeshire Newport SN052404 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/100 Halichoerus grypus ? 06-Jun-11 Pembrokeshire Newport SN053405 Car park attendant L A informed for disposal.SS2011/101 Halichoerus grypus ? 06-Jun-11 Ceredigion Llanon - Aberarth SN500662 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/112 Halichoerus grypus F juv moderate decomposition 13-Jun-11 Ceredigion Traeth Gwyn SN400596 Danielle Gibas L A informed for disposal.SS2011/113 Halichoerus grypus ? 15-Jun-11 Anglesey Skerries SH267947SS2011/119 Halichoerus grypus ? 17-Jun-11 Denbighshire Rhyl SJ001800 Mary Carr - ZSL - MEM Tagged yellow 16 from WMZ.SS2011/114 Halichoerus grypus F moderate decomposition 26-Jun-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SN984587 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/115 Halichoerus grypus ? advanced decomposition 27-Jun-11 Ceredigion Llanon SN510680 Phillip Schofield L A informed for disposal.SS2011/116 Halichoerus grypus ? moderate decomposition 27-Jun-11 Ceredigion Llanon SN510680 Phillip Schofield L A informed for disposal.SS2011/117 Halichoerus grypus F advanced decomposition 28-Jun-11 Ceredigion Tresaith SN276516 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/120 Halichoerus grypus ? 30-Jun-11 Ceredigion Borth SN606908 Mr Pritchard L A informed for disposal.SS2011/121 Halichoerus grypus ? 30-Jun-11 Pembrokeshire Poppit SN153487 Dan Worth L A informed for disposal.SS2011/123 Halichoerus grypus ? 10-Jul-11 Swansea Worms Head SS410870 NCI Worms Head L A informed for disposal.SS2011/124 Halichoerus grypus ? 10-Jul-11 Ceredigion Borth SN607908 Milford Haven C.G. L A informed for disposal.SS2011/146 Halichoerus grypus ? 19-Jul-11 Pembrokeshire Broad Haven SM860140 Lifeguards L A informed for disposal.SS2011/160 Halichoerus grypus ? 25-Jul-11 Ceredigion Llanon SN506672 Rowan O'Neill L A informed for disposal.SS2011/161 Halichoerus grypus ? moderate decomposition 27-Jul-11 Ceredigion Penbryn SN295529 Josh Jones L A informed for disposal.SS2011/209 Halichoerus grypus ? 01-Aug-11 Ceredigion Tresaith SN278516 Dyfed Powys Police L A informed for disposal.SS2011/210 Halichoerus grypus ? 02-Aug-11 Gwynedd Dinas Dinlle SH434575 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/211 Halichoerus grypus ? 07-Aug-11 Ceredigion New Quay SN393595 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/212 Halichoerus grypus ? 08-Aug-11 Ceredigion Aberystwyth SN583821 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/213 Halichoerus grypus F advanced decomposition 08-Aug-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SN576006 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/214 Halichoerus grypus ? fresh 12-Aug-11 Ceredigion Tanybwlch SN579800 Doris Jones CCC L A informed for disposal.SS2011/215 Halichoerus grypus ? advanced decomposition 12-Aug-11 Ceredigion Tanybwlch SN579800 Doris Jones CCC L A informed for disposal.SS2011/216 Halichoerus grypus ? 21-Aug-11 Ceredigion Ynyslas SN604928 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/217 Halichoerus grypus ? 21-Aug-11 e Pembrey SN040365 Control Tower L A informed for disposal.SS2011/218 Halichoerus grypus ? adult 21-Aug-11 Ceredigion Cei Bach SN408598 Steve Martin L A informed for disposal.SS2011/219 Halichoerus grypus ? 25-Aug-11 Ceredigion Borth SN607900 Adam L A informed for disposal.SS2011/220 Halichoerus grypus F advanced decomposition 26-Aug-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SH571018 David Smith Details via Sal Shipley. L A informed for disposal.SS2011/221 Halichoerus grypus ? 31-Aug-11 Ceredigion Tanybwlch SN800579 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/222 Halichoerus grypus ? 09-Sep-11 Pembrokeshire Newgale SM847220 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/223 Halichoerus grypus ? 09-Sep-11 Ceredigion Llanrhystud SN526699 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/224 Halichoerus grypus ? 09-Sep-11 Ceredigion Borth SN607907 L A informed for disposal.

Marine Environmental Monitoring Seals 2011 Page 1

Appendix 3.

SS_No pm species Sex d-tip to Condition Date County Locality Grid_ref reported by CommentSS2011/225 Halichoerus grypus ? adult fresh 14-Sep-11 Gwynedd Aberdyfi SN593970 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/226 Halichoerus grypus ? pup moderate decomposition 17-Sep-11 Gwynedd Aberdyfi SN593965 Sal Shipley L A informed for disposal.SS2011/227 Halichoerus grypus ? pup moderate decomposition 17-Sep-11 Gwynedd Aberdyfi SN594964 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/228 Halichoerus grypus ? pup mod/advanced decomposition 18-Sep-11 Ceredigion Clarach SN587836 Pauline Bett L A informed for disposal.SS2011/229 Halichoerus grypus ? 18-Sep-11 Ceredigion Aberporth SN259516 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/230 Halichoerus grypus ? adult 20-Sep-11 Pembrokeshire Ceibwr SN110457 Milford Haven C.G. L A informed for disposal.SS2011/231 Halichoerus grypus ? pup 20-Sep-11 Pembrokeshire Ceibwr SN110457 Milford Haven C.G. L A informed for disposal.SS2011/232 Halichoerus grypus ? moderate decomposition 20-Sep-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SN583991 Sal Shipley L A informed for disposal.SS2011/233 Halichoerus grypus ? pup moderate decomposition 22-Sep-11 Ceredigion Gwbert SN162408 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/234 Halichoerus grypus M adult advanced decomposition 22-Sep-11 Ceredigion Ynyslas SN603929 Rod Penrose L A informed for disposal.SS2011/235 Halichoerus grypus ? pup advanced decomposition 22-Sep-11 Ceredigion Ynyslas SN603930 Rod Penrose L A informed for disposal.SS2011/236 Halichoerus grypus ? adult advanced decomposition 22-Sep-11 Ceredigion Ynyslas SN602943 Rod Penrose L A informed for disposal.SS2011/237 Halichoerus grypus ? advanced decomposition 26-Sep-11 Gwynedd Black Rock Sands SH530370 David O'Neil HM L A informed for disposal.SS2011/238 Halichoerus grypus ? 27-Sep-11 Pembrokeshire Newport SN054406 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/242 Halichoerus grypus ? pup advanced decomposition 28-Sep-11 Ceredigion Morgans beach SN160504 Rhianon Weatherhead L A informed for disposal.SS2011/243 Halichoerus grypus ? pup fresh 29-Sep-11 Pembrokeshire Milford Haven TBC Terry Leadbetter Died in rehab, taken for pm.SS2011/244 Halichoerus grypus F advanced decomposition 29-Sep-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SN583995 Sal Shipley Pregnant with pup.SS2011/254 Halichoerus grypus ? 08-Oct-11 Ceredigion Llangrannog SN310543 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/255 Halichoerus grypus ? pup advanced decomposition 09-Oct-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SN582994 Sal Shipley L A informed for disposal.SS2011/256 Halichoerus grypus ? pup moderate decomposition 09-Oct-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SH573012 Sal Shipley L A informed for disposal.SS2011/257 Halichoerus grypus ? pup advanced decomposition 09-Oct-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SH563028 Sal Shipley L A informed for disposal.SS2011/258 Halichoerus grypus ? 10-Oct-11 Gwynedd Criccieth SH510379 MoP L A informed for disposal.SS2011/259 Halichoerus grypus ? pup advanced decomposition 10-Oct-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SN582993 Sal Shipley L A informed for disposal.SS2011/260 Halichoerus grypus ? adult advanced decomposition 10-Oct-11 Gwynedd Aberdyfi SN589977 Sal Shipley L A informed for disposal.SS2011/261 Halichoerus grypus M pup moderate decomposition 10-Oct-11 Gwynedd Aberdyfi SN584987 Sal Shipley L A informed for disposal.SS2011/262 Halichoerus grypus ? pup 10-Oct-11 Gwynedd Barmouth SH610155 HM L A informed for disposal.SS2011/263 Halichoerus grypus ? pup 10-Oct-11 Gwynedd Talybont SH573220 HM L A informed for disposal.SS2011/264 Halichoerus grypus ? adult fresh 11-Oct-11 Gwynedd Bennar Beach SH569229 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/265 Halichoerus grypus ? adult 11-Oct-11 Gwynedd Talybont SH570224 HM L A informed for disposal.SS2011/364 Halichoerus grypus ? 14-Oct-11 Ceredigion Tanybwlch SN579802 Emily Foot WTSWW L A informed for disposal.SS2011/365 Halichoerus grypus ? 15-Oct-11 Gwynedd Harlech SH570310 Ifan Jones SNPA L A informed for disposal.SS2011/366 Halichoerus grypus ? 21-Oct-11 Pembrokeshire Newport SN053405 Mrs Coin L A informed for disposal.SS2011/367 Halichoerus grypus ? 21-Oct-11 Ceredigion Penbryn SN292526 Brydor Harries L A informed for disposal.SS2011/368 Halichoerus grypus F pup slight decomposition 22-Oct-11 Pembrokeshire Ceibwr SN109458 Rod Penrose Poss prop cut to head, tagged and L A informed for disposal.SS2011/369 Halichoerus grypus ? fresh 23-Oct-11 Pembrokeshire Newport SN053405 Ilene Silcock Headless. L A informed for disposal.SS2011/370 Halichoerus grypus ? 28-Oct-11 Pembrokeshire Broad Haven Sth SR979939 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/371 Halichoerus grypus ? 28-Oct-11 Pembrokeshire Broad Haven Sth SR978939 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/372 Halichoerus grypus ? 02-Nov-11 Pembrokeshire Newgale SM850215 PCNP L A informed for disposal. Head removed by persons unknown.SS2011/373 Halichoerus grypus ? adult 05-Nov-11 Gwynedd Criccieth SH530370 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/374 Halichoerus grypus ? 17-Nov-11 Pembrokeshire Freshwater West SM880005 Julia BDMLR L A informed for disposal.SS2011/375 Halichoerus grypus ? 21-Nov-11 Gwynedd Criccieth SH510379 L A informed for disposal.SS2011/376 Halichoerus grypus ? advanced decomposition 11-Dec-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SN586985 Sal Shipley L A informed for disposal.SS2011/377 Halichoerus grypus M moderate decomposition 11-Dec-11 Gwynedd Tywyn SN589976 Sal Shipley L A informed for disposal.SS2011/378 Halichoerus grypus ? adult 13-Dec-11 Denbighshire Kinmel Bay SH980805 Joan Chance L A informed for disposal.SS2011/379 Halichoerus grypus ? pup 13-Dec-11 Flintshire Gronnant SJ090847 Ranger L A informed for disposal.SS2011/397 Halichoerus grypus M slight decomposition 22-Dec-11 Pembrokeshire Angle SM867029 L A informed for disposal.

Marine Environmental Monitoring Seals 2011 Page 2

UK Cetacean StrandingsInvestigation Programme

www.ukstrandings.org

If you finda stranded animal

please call

0800 6520333

UK strandings and CSIP backgroundFor centuries, cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises)have regularly stranded around the coastline of the UK. Ancientlaws give the Crown rights to such stranded cetaceans or'Royal Fish'. Where cetaceans strand on Crown or public land,this prerogative is still administered today by the Receiver ofWreck in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and by MarineScotland in Scotland.

In 1913, the Natural History Museum began to routinely collateinformation on UK stranded cetaceans for the first time. In1988, an outbreak of phocine distemper resulted in the deathsof many thousands of seals throughout Europe and as a result,in 1990, the then UK Department of the Environment initiatedthe funding of a long-term monitoring programme involving thesystematic post-mortem examination of UK-stranded marinemammals, to routinely investigate causes of mortality.

The UK Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP)as it is now known is a consortium of partner organisationsfunded by Defra and the UK Devolved Administrations, with theJoint Nature Conservation Committee acting as contractmanager on behalf of Defra. Partner organisations are theZoological Society of London, Scottish Agricultural College(Inverness), the Natural History Museum and MarineEnvironmental Monitoring. The CSIP is tasked with recordinginformation on all cetaceans, marine turtles and basking sharksthat strand around UK shores each year and with theinvestigation of suitable strandings through post-mortemexamination.

The investigation of stranded marine turtles was incorporatedinto the projects remit in 2001, followed by stranded baskingsharks in 2007.

Strandings and post-mortem data collected under the aegis ofthe CSIP is publicly available through the National BiodiversityNetwork gateway www.nbn.org.uk.

Funding bodies Contract manager Partner organisations

Harbour porpoise image: © WDCS/Lucy Molleson Design and layout: NES 01239 612161

Sperm whale stranded in Norfolk 2003 (image © CSIP/ZSL)

Cetaceans(whales, dolphins and porpoises)Each year, approximately 500 cetacean strandings are reportedaround the UK coastline. The majority of these are deadstrandings, with a small proportion found live stranded. In total,20 species of cetacean have been recorded stranded in the UKsince the inception of the CSIP in 1990, making it one of the mostspecies diverse regions in Europe. The species which are mostcommonly reported stranded each year are the harbourporpoise, which has a UK wide coastal distribution and the short-beaked common dolphin, which is predominantly found in watersoff south-west England.

SealsTwo species, the grey and common seal are resident in the UK,although Arctic species of seal are also occasionally seen. It isnormal for live seals to haul out on land, so please only call thestranding hotline if you are concerned for the welfare of the animal.

Marine turtlesOf the world’s seven marine turtle species, five (the leatherback,loggerhead, Kemp’s Ridley, green and hawksbill turtles) havebeen recorded in UK waters. The leatherback, the largest marineturtle, is the species most frequently recorded in UK waters. Theother four species have hard shells and are less frequentlyencountered in UK waters, where they usually occur as strayjuveniles carried by currents from warmer seas.

Basking sharksA small number of basking sharks are found stranded around UKshores each year, most of which are reported in south-westEngland and in north-west Scotland.

Live Strandings - UrgentIf a live stranded animal is found, please telephone the hotline assoon as possible, so that the appropriate rescue organisationcan respond. In addition, the Coastguard should also be notifiedby calling the 24-hour Maritime and Coastguard Agencyinformation line on 0870 600 6505.

Dead StrandingsWhen reporting a dead stranding, please contact the CSIPhotline and notify the relevant partner organisation, giving asmuch information about the stranded animal as possible (seerest of leaflet for further details).

Further background details on UK strandings and the work ofthe CSIP, along with additional information on species that

strand in the UK can be found at www.ukstrandings.org.Information on Scottish strandings

www.strandings.org

Information on Welsh strandingswww.strandings.com

Why do we need a strandings network?The underlying causes of stranding events are not always clear.In particular, the role that human activity may play in eitherdirectly or indirectly causing strandings remains controversial.Information generated on stranded animals can provide a pictureof what species are found in UK waters. In addition, strandingsthat undergo post-mortem examination can also provide uniqueinsights into causes of death, diseases, environmentalcontaminant levels, reproductive patterns, diet and other aspectsof the general health of cetacean populations. This providesimportant baseline data to help detect any future outbreaks ofdisease, unusual mortality events or responses to environmentalchange.

The CSIP collect a wide range of data on each stranding foundon UK shores. In the event that you discover a dead strandedanimal, please contact the CSIP hotline and give a description ofthe following where possible:

� location and date found

� species and sex

� overall length

� condition of the animal (see images)� your contact details should further information be needed

Digital images are extremely helpful in the identification tospecies of strandings, as well as ascertaining whether the bodymay be suitable for post-mortem examination. If possible, pleasealso forward any images that may have been taken with a digitalcamera or mobile phone.

Decomposition conditionAn assessment of the state of decomposition helps ascertainwhether the carcass may be suitable for post-mortemexamination. The following images show harbour porpoises inincreasingly decomposed condition, along with the category thatwould be given in each case.

Sex differentiation (cetaceans)

Humpback whale found dead in the River Thames, 2009image © CSIP/ZSL

Freshly dead

Slight decomposition

Moderate decomposition

Advanced decompositionIt should be noted that in addition to decomposition, scavengersmay also have a significant impact on carcasses.

Some damage to carcasses is not caused by scavengers and itis important when reporting a stranding to mention the presenceof any straight cuts or unusual injuries that may be related tohuman activities.

Harbour porpoise found stranded in Norfolk, 2003image © Graeme Cresswell

The top photograph shows the underside of a male harbourporpoise, with the anus towards the tail and a genital slit towardsthe head end of the body. The lower photograph shows a femaleharbour porpoise, with two smaller mammary slits either side ofthe ano-genital slit. All cetaceans have a similar appearance.

Male

Female

Collaborating

organisations

Striped dolphin Stenella coeruleoalba2

Adult length: 2.25m-2.4m, 45-50 pairs of sharp, conical teeth

Harbour porpoise Phocoena phocoena1

Adult length: 1.3m-1.9m19-28 pairs of small, spade-shaped teeth

Bottlenose dolphinTursiops truncatus1

Adult length: 2.5m-4.1m18-26 pairs of teeth

Atlantic white-sided dolphinLagenorhynchus acutus1

Adult length: 2.5m -2.7m29-40 pairs of conical teeth

Basking shark Cetorhinus maximus1

Adult length: 6m-8m

White beaked dolphinLagenorhynchus albirostris1

Adult length: 2.5m -2.7m22-28 pairs of conical teeth

Northern bottlenose whaleHyperoodon ampullatus2

Adult length: 7m-9m2-4 teeth in lower jaw only

Long finned pilot whaleGlobicephala melas1

Adult length: 3.8m-6m16-24 pairs of teeth

Short-beaked common dolphinDelphinus delphis1

Adult length: 2.1m -2.4m,40-50 pairs of small,sharp conical teeth

Risso’s dolphinGrampus griseus1

Adult length: 3.3m-3.8m, 2-7 (usually 4)pairs of peglike teeth in lower jaw only

UK Cetacean Strandings Investigation ProgrammeTel: 0800 6520333 www.ukstrandings.org

Harbour sealPhoca vitulina1

Adult length: 1.6m-1.8m

Grey seal femaleHalichoerus grypus1


Leatherback turtleDermochelys coriacea2

Adult length: up to 2.9m

Grey seal maleHalichoerus grypus1


Funding bodies Contract manager Partner organisations

Loggerhead turtleCaretta caretta2

Adult length: 0.7m-1m

Minke whaleBalaenoptera acutorostrata1

Length adult: 8.0m -8.5m, 50-70 throat grooves

1 ©WDCS/Lucy Molleson 2 ©CSIP/Lucy Molleson

2011 Marine Mammal Strandings Annual Report active/2011 Marine Mammal Strandin… · 2 INTRODUCTION...

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