Moray Firth latest

Well what a month February was. The time seemed to fly by and the weather was very strange for this time of year with the sun shining most days and temperatures up, some days over 15 degrees and some fairly good sea states, it was a real pleasure to walk along the coast. I am always delighted to see the arrival of the Fulmars and other migrant birds.

Sightings were good with bottlenose dolphins being recorded at least 10 times from Cromarty to Banff. Some of the pods included calves but on the whole they consisted of mainly adults. Harbour porpoise were recorded at Burghead, Findochty and in the Inner Moray Firth at Fort George and we had some rare sightings of Risso’s dolphins at Lybster.

February was dominated with the news about the government’s plan to release licences to allow oil/gas exploration in the Moray Firth with some sectors being only five miles offshore – what are they thinking? Hopefully the licenses will not be passed and I can keep dreaming that the Firth will one day become a protected marine park where all wildlife can life in safety. I know many Marine Connection supporters have supported this campaign and I thank you, each and every one who has taken the time to speak out against these plans. It is vital that all the Moray Firth dolphins are given the protection they deserve, including of course your adopted dolphins.

Until next time, enjoy the sunshine.

Peter Macdonald