The Year of Our Island project continues its celebration of Our Seas and Shores with a number of events this weekend dedicated to helping people try something new in 2018.

On Saturday, the Manx Whale and Dolphin watch will be hosting ’Seawatch at the Sound’, an event where experts from the charity will teach attendees how to spot the different cetacean species found in Manx waters.

Jen Adams from the Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch said: ’Everyone is welcome to come and join the team to look out for some of our incredible marine life; porpoises, dolphins, whales, seals and basking sharks. Year of Our Island has helped to fund 10 pairs of high-quality binoculars which will be on hand for attendees to borrow.’

Over the last few weeks the charity has been inundated with sightings of whales, basking sharks, dolphins and porpoises at spots around the Island, from Douglas bay to the Calf of Man.

Manx territorial waters are an important habitat to five key species of whale, dolphin and porpoise. Pods are frequently sighted and studied by MWDW and local observers, allowing conservationists to keep track of relative abundance and distribution of these species.

’It is vital that the public is aware that these animals can be seen in Manx waters so as to ensure the ongoing conservation of the species,’ said Jen.

For those who aren’t lucky enough to see first-hand our sea life, Year of Our Island is holding ’Exploring our Seas’ evenings.

These events will transport attendees from dry land to beneath our waters, with the showing of films, and guest speakers.

Senior Marine Environment Officer Dr Peter Duncan and Beach Buddies founder Bill Dale will there to answer questions at the first event this Friday at the Studio Theatre at Ballakermeen.

Doors will open from 7.30 pm and the tickets can be purchased for £3 through the Year of Our Island Facebook page or on the door.

If you would like to attend any of the upcoming events or would just like more information on the Year of Our Island project you can email [email protected], go online to ourisland.im or call 687007.

by the Year of Our Island Project Team

www.ourisland.im