Yorkshire coast tops for spotting whales (From Gazette & Herald)

Yorkshire coast tops for spotting whales

8:16am Tuesday 9th October 2012 in News

A YORKSHIRE beauty spot has been named as one of the top whale-spotting locations in the UK.

Whale conservation specialists Planet Whale have identified the Yorkshire coastline among the best places to see two species of the mammal – and say it shows marine life enthusiasts do not have to travel abroad to see them.

Flamborough Head was marked out as a prime location for spotting the northern minke whale and the harbour porpoise by the group, which is launching an event bringing together conservationists, divers, tour operators and experts from across the world with the aim of highlighting the dangers the global whale population faces.

“There are plenty of fantastic whale-spotting locations across the UK, and Flamborough Head has often had confirmed sightings of the northern minke whale,” said Dylan Walker, co-founder of Planet Whale and a former marine mammal scientist.

“Increasing awareness of these amazing mammals in the UK is vital if we are to save them from the threats they still face across the globe today.

“This is why we are launching a new campaign to save the whales later this month.”

The group says over-fishing, pollution, increased use of nets, habitat destruction and climate change are all a threat to whales.

The Save The Whales: Reloaded campaign will be launched in Brighton on October 25 and 26, as part of the World Whale and Dolphin Watch Operators Conference.