Marine Connection cetacean exhibition in the Outer Hebrides

Recognised internationally for their environmental importance, the Islands of the Outer Hebrides have an abundance of sealife. In recognition of this, the Marine Connection recently opened an educational cetacean exhibition on Benbecula, which lies between the Islands of North and South Uist.

The charity’s exhibition is based at Nunton Steadings, a renovated eighteenth century building - one of the oldest and most historically interesting buildings in the area. The exhibition centre also houses a cafe selling home-made and local produce plus a gift shop selling local handicrafts. A variety of events are hosted here including music nights and caelighs which help to promote local music and art whilst at the same time raising awareness of local history and tradition.

The dolphin and whale exhibition section of the centre houses descriptive panels with a section on species identification and lists the key species of whales and dolphins seen in and around these waters. Of course being one of a chain of islands, marine litter is also very much an important issue for Benbecula therefore the exhibition also includes a section on marine litter which poses a threat these marine mammals and what can be done to help protect them.

Also on display are porpoise, dolphin and whale models and skeletons and an interactive section - making it an informative exhibition for all to visit. We will also be working in line with the schools curriculum and as part of this ongoing project schools and youth groups will be invited to attend educational workshops at the centre.

The primary objectives of this Marine Connection exhibition are to increase both local and visitors knowledge and understanding of porpoises, dolphins, whales and marine environment around the Outer Hebrides in general which in return will help to encourage protection and of these magnificant marine mammals and enhance enjoyment of their natural habitat.

One reason people visit the area is for the variety of wildlife. At certain times of the year various species - including basking sharks, porpoises, whales, dolphins, puffins, golden eagles and otters can be seen. In fact the Uists have the only resident population of bottlenose dolphins in the Hebrides – around the sound of Barra. By raising awareness of this population through our exhibition, it is hoped that their environment and future can be preserved and promoted in a sustainable manner.

Benbecula is a beautiful island, with interesting monuments, historic remains and fantastic expanses of shallow sandy bays. Due to its central location in the island chain, it is an ideal base for visitors wishing to spend a few days or even a week exploring North and South Uist.

It’s an area of unspoilt natural beauty with spectacular scenery and the Marine Connection welcome the opportunity to work in the area and becoming involved in other projects around the Outer Hebrides.

images (c) Marine Connection 2008 / Nunton Steadings