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Moray Firth Latest
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Seasons Greetings from the Moray Firth ! |
November has had varied weather here in the Moray Firth but despite being late in the year, sightings on the whole have been excellent. I have seen dolphins on 16 out of the 30 days this month, ranging between group sizes of 4-5 up to 20. Many animals I recognised, one in particular called Goose who has a new calf, it was great to see mother and youngster in Cullen Bay, swimming alongside the bow of the boat as we headed west.
Bottlenose dolphins were recorded in a wide range throughout the Firth, including Aberdeen, Findochty, Burghead and into the Inner Moray Firth. Harbour porpoise were also spotted in various locations, with good sightings at Fort George and Aberdeen. Other sightings recorded this month were on the east coast and included a basking shark north of Aberdeen and a humpback whale off Stonehaven, in fact we were fortunate to have at least three humpback sighted in November which was magnificent.
 As is normal at this time of year, I am also on the lookout for any grey seal pups that became stranded or lost. Seal mothers have a single pup and they stay onshore for a few weeks before preparing for life at sea – however some become confused and are found in all sorts of places – including nearby roads!!!
Christmas will soon be here and we are looking forward to the New Year. Many challenges lie ahead in 2008 – including a very personal challenge for me - as in May 2008 I will become a father again, which will certainly prove a challenge!
Until next time wishing everyone a great Christmas and a very happy and peaceful New Year.
With all good wishes,
Peter Macdonald
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