Whale-watchers have been flocking to the north-west of Scotland following an “unheard of” number of spectacular humpback whale sightings.
Two humpbacks have been repeatedly spotted feasting in the waters near Ullapool in the Highlands in recent weeks, capping off a year which has seen double the number of cetacean sightings in the Minch Sea.
A local marine expert says he has recorded almost 13,000 whale and dolphin sightings and believes the region’s status as a Marine Protected Area is a key factor.
Noel Hawkins, from Ullapool Sea Savers, said: “This summer witnessed common dolphins coming in closer and more regularly to the coast around Ullapool, even in front of the village at times.
William Bird“For coming up to two weeks now, we have been witnessing dolphins, porpoise, minke whales and most amazingly humpback whales swimming within two miles of the shore and at times only a few hundred meters from us.
“Along with accompanying escorts of dolphins, the humpbacks, two that we know for sure, have been feeding and lunging through sprats and herring, regularly and visible without binoculars on occasion.
“Locals and visitors alike have had the opportunity to witness these iconic animals, that most would only expect on far-flung destinations elsewhere in the world.
“Hopefully this is a reflection of the efforts being made here to protect and look after our seas and environment with which we’ve been gifted.”
Follow STV News on WhatsApp
Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
