NatureScot Research Report 1360 - Site Condition Monitoring of bottlenose dolphins within the Moray Firth Special Area of Conservation 2017-2022.
Abstract
This report provides an update on the condition of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) within the Moray Firth Special Area of Conservation (SAC) for the monitoring cycle between 2017 and 2022. The report integrates data from the University of Aberdeen and the Sea Mammal Research Unit (SMRU) at the University of St. Andrews, focusing on the SAC and Tayside & adjacent waters. Key findings indicate a 4.9% decline in dolphin numbers within the SAC over the 6-year period, although long-term trends remain stable. Conversely, dolphin numbers in Tayside & adjacent waters increased by an estimated 4.8% per year. The overall east coast bottlenose dolphin population is estimated at 226 individuals, with an increasing number of calves identified each year. Despite shifts in distribution, both areas are used by over 50% of the population in most years. Passive acoustic monitoring confirms consistent use of the SAC, with dolphins present over 80% of days from April to December. The report concludes that while there is interannual variability, the long-term trend is stable, and the condition status of the SAC is recommended as Favourable (maintained).