The Adopt-a-Risso’s scheme is run in collaboration with the Manx Wildlife Trust and all proceeds directly help with our joint marine conservation efforts in Manx waters.

We love our Risso’s dolphins

The Isle of Man is a really special place for Risso’s dolphins as we have one of only a few inshore populations in Europe. This species is usually found in much deeper water off continental shelves, often at depths of 1000 metres. As a result, they are understudied worldwide with only a handful of research hotspots. Manx territorial waters are really shallow, with the deepest areas reaching 120 metres and yet we frequently see Risso’s dolphins every year from April-October. Photo-Identification work allows us to keep track of individual Risso’s dolphins, allowing us to see which animals return to Manx waters each year, how often they return and where else in the British Isles they go. With funds always difficult to find, we need your help to learn more about these beautiful and mysterious dolphins. At just £30 a year you can ‘Adopt’ one of our three most frequently seen Risso’s dolphins and help us understand and protect our resident population. In return you will receive a lovely adoption pack with regular updates.

Your adoption pack

We have put together a unique adoption pack which includes:

• A personalised certificate of adoption.
• Detailed information about your adopted dolphin and a twice yearly update.
• Information about Risso’s dolphins around the Isle of Man, viewing hotspots and handy hints on how to spot them.

To complete your pack, you will receive a unique hand-made cuddly Risso’s dolphin. We had them made especially for the adoption scheme and you can’t find them anywhere else.

How to adopt

The Manx Wildlife Trust are in charge of the adoption process. There are 2 ways you can adopt:

•  Adopt-a-Risso’s dolphin right away via this online form
• Pop into the Manx Wildlife Trust shop, 7-8 Market Place, Peel, IM5 1AB and adopt in-store