Rob and I arrived at the CLdN office in Heysham at around 23:00, where after checking in we were promptly escorted to the survey vessel, the CLdN ‘Power’.  Upon entering the vessel and making our way to the crew quarters, we were warmly welcomed by both the steward and the chef, with whom we discussed our survey plans for the next day and our breakfast arrangements, of which they were very accommodating.  They then showed us to our individual cabins, after which we settled down for the night in preparation for an early start the next day.

Conditions became light enough for surveying at around 7:45-8:00, which is when we made our way to the bridge of the ship.  As this was my first survey for MARINElife, Rob first showed me around the bridge and allowed me to familiarise myself with the necessary instruments and survey forms. Then we were good to go!

Our first sighting of the outbound journey was a group of around ten Guillemot, followed by a few gulls, including Herring Gull, Common Gull, and some unidentified gull species.  On our way to Dublin, we also spotted a single Gannet, a few Cormorant, and a few more Guillemot.  As we approached the outer sea walls of Dublin port, we spotted our first marine mammal, a solitary Grey Seal, which was promptly followed by two more just before the Red Lighthouse.

Whilst docked at the harbour, we took some time to observe the port’s wildlife, managing to spot a number of species that were not recorded on either the outbound or return journey, including a couple of Light-bellied Brent Geese, some Shag, and several Black Guillemot.  There were many gulls in the port including Lesser Black-backed Gull, Greater Black-backed Gull, Black-headed Gull, and a couple of Mediterranean Gull.  The identification of the fast-flying juvenile and intermediate-aged gulls was as challenging a test as ever of our identification powers!   Dublin port’s resident Grey Seal also put in an appearance.

Once loaded, the Power left the harbour for the return journey at around 14.00, allowing us a few hours of time for surveying before sunset.  Shortly after passing the harbour breakwater, we recorded three Harbour Porpoise, which was a lovely surprise as we were starting to think that we might not see any at all due to the moderate sea state.

Rob was surprised that seabird numbers were extremely low, even for a winter survey, with several species recorded only as single records, including Razorbill, Fulmar, and most surprising of all a single Kittiwake!  We did have a fine view of a Red-throated Diver as it flew past the vessel just out from the bridge, while a flock of nine Common Scoter heading south low over the water was good to see.  A final solitary Grey Seal recorded towards the end of the survey period capped off a highly enjoyable survey.

Both Rob and I would like to thank Captain Jaak Kalm and his crew of the CLdN Power, who were very friendly and accommodating, and helped to make this a memorable first MARINElife survey for me!

Rob Petley-Jones and Rhys Jones, Research Surveyors for MARINElife (Registered Charity No. 1110884; Registered Company No. 5057367)

Weather Conditions:

Outbound: Overcast but with very good visibility; Sea state 4-5; Swell 1

Return: Overcast, but with slightly reduced visibility; Sea state 4-5; Swell 1-2