Harbour Porpoise

Pollution

Harbour porpoises can get very sick from chemicals and tiny pieces of plastic that end up in their ocean home, making it hard for them to find food or stay healthy. They might accidentally eat these harmful things or absorb them through their skin, which can weaken them.

Being done about itScientists are studying pollution to understand exactly what harms porpoises, while many people are helping by cleaning up beaches, recycling more, and using fewer single-use plastics to keep the ocean clean for these amazing animals.

Habitat loss

When people build new structures in the ocean or create lots of noise, it can scare porpoises away from their best hunting grounds and safe resting spots. This means they lose the quiet, healthy places they need to live, find food, and raise their babies.

Being done about itGovernments and wildlife groups are setting up special protected areas in the ocean where porpoises can live undisturbed. They are also working to make sure ocean activities, like building, are done in ways that are less noisy and disruptive to marine life.

Bycatch / Overfishing

Harbour porpoises often get accidentally tangled in large fishing nets meant for other fish, which is called 'bycatch,' and they can't get free to breathe. Also, if too many fish are caught by humans (overfishing), there isn't enough food left for the porpoises to eat.

Being done about itFishermen are learning to use special fishing gear that helps porpoises escape or makes noises to warn them away from nets. Scientists are also working with governments to set limits on how many fish can be caught, ensuring there's enough food for porpoises and a healthy ocean for everyone.

Brave scientists and ocean helpers are working hard to protect them by making fishing nets safer to prevent accidental tangles and by trying to make the ocean quieter, which is a super important mission to keep these gentle creatures safe!

Field notes

Pollution

Habitat loss

Bycatch / Overfishing