Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch (MWDW) has been at the forefront of marine mammal science on the Isle of Man since 2006.
We work voluntarily year round to ensure the safeguarding of whales, dolphins, and porpoises (cetaceans) in Manx territorial waters through non-invasive research and public awareness efforts.
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Report a sighting
Let us know what you have spotted in Manx waters
Dolphin family
‘Temporarily resident’ mother and calf bottlenose dolphin
We are getting lots of people asking about the whereabouts of Moonlight and Starlight. They were last spotted on Friday where they spent the afternoon and evening close in at Ramsey bay. There have been no sightings since so we assume they are still up north, at a location where not many people go- perhaps coastal between Peel and Point of Ayre. It would be worth a look if anyone is walking the beaches up there. There is no particular time of day or state of tide when they come in shore. We have seen them in Peel almost to the minute at low tide, high tide and mid-tide (going in and out). It would just be too easy if their appearance could be timed and I think it makes it all the more special when they do pop in. They are, after all, wild and free and we should be thankful of any encounter with this pair rather than expect them 🙂
We are looking for a Vera B who chose the name Starlight at Peel Carnival but did not wish to leave contact details. If you are Vera and would like a photo and certificate please let us know!
We still have spaces free this Thursday and next Tuesday. Please let me know if you would like to book a space. Message Jen on 393496To kick off our summer holiday ocean craft sessions, we are running two educational workshops all about Moonlight and Starlight. Discover these two dolphins, from Moonlight's background in Scotland and how she came to the Isle of Man to give birth in September. Discover the travels of these two iconic dolphins in Manx waters and how Starlight is growing into a very confident young bottlenose dolphin. In the second part of the workshop, you will design and create your own information poster to take home. There are two dates, suitable for 6 and above and lasting 2 hours. Cost is £5 or £3 for junior members. Dates this Thurs (13th) 2-4pm and Tuesday 18th 2-4pm. Text Jen on 393496 to book. Booking is essential.
Recent sightings in Manx waters
| Date | Time | Species | Total | Duration | Location | Observer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09/08/2020 | 19:10 | Harbour Porpoise | 1 | 5 |
Calf of Man between Drinking dragon and Chicken rock |
Nina & Dermot Shimmin |
| 09/08/2020 | 18:56 | Harbour Porpoise | 2 | 5 |
Port St Mary |
Nina & Dermot Shimmin |
| 08/08/2020 | 17:25 | Harbour Porpoise | 5 | 5 |
Port Soderick |
Nina & Dermot Shimmin |
| 07/08/2020 | 19:00 | Bottlenose Dolphin | 2 | 60 |
Ramsey bay |
Many |
| 07/08/2020 | 12:45 | Bottlenose Dolphin | 2 | 45 |
Port Lewaigue-Ramsey bay |
Many |
| 03/08/2020 | 19:00 | Bottlenose Dolphin | 2 | 10 |
Peel Bay |
Liz |
Diary of a Dolphineer
Online blog written by our summer interns each year
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