Cetaceans an Pinnipeds (Dutch continental shelf and beaches only)

Most of the marine mammals were sighted during ship-based surveys conducted for seabird counts. However, the largest herd of Harbour Porpoises, a pod of at least 17 individuals, was recorded during a seawatch at Hondsbossche Zeewering on 14th January (SL, see elsewhere in this issue) and the largest group of dolphins was reported from an offshore platform, some 30 unidentified dolphins at the Helder field on 16th February (KT). Porpoises were observed close to the shore from ships on 30th November (3), Sth December, IBth, 19th and 27th January (see below). One Porpoise was found dead on Ameland on 19th December and another two were found alive here in March (PdJ, and newspaper reports). Harbour Porpoise sightings include: