Study to provide glimpse into secret world of whales and dolphins off south coast

The South Coast is said to be an important foraging, resting and reproductive habitat for 25 species of whales, dolphins and porpoise, and particularly for large Humpback, Fin and Minke whales. File picture: Ronan McLaughlin/IWDG

A major study on how marine traffic and noise affects 25 species of whales, dolphins and porpoises will provide a glimpse into a “secret world” off Ireland’s southern coast for the first time.

Cork-based non-profit conservation group Ocean Research & Conservation Ireland will conduct the study, with the aim to relay warning alerts to maritime traffic to reduce the risk of disturbance and ship strikes.