Collisions between ships and cetaceans (whales and dolphins) are increasing around the world and several whale populations are under massive threat due to a high collision risk in some areas such as the US East Coast, the Mediterranean and around the Canary Islands. However, information on these collisions is scarce, especially for incidents involving sailing vessels.

About this Survey

Marine biologist Fabian Ritter, working for the non-profit organization MEER, is investigating reports of collisions and near-miss events between sailing vessels and cetaceans.

MEER would like to invite all sailors around the world to provide information on any whale/dolphin collisions or near misses during their sailing careers.

You can log your report here [BROKEN LINK] (reports may be given anonymously).

Objectives

This research is purely scientific and all information gathered will be used to:

a) understand the reasons and causes of collisions, and

b) help reduce the risk of collisions, both for sailors and for cetaceans.

About MEER

www.m-e-e-r.org

M.E.E.R. e.V. is a non-profit association based in Berlin, Germany which runs the project M.E.E.R. La Gomera, Canary Islands. The Association’s objectives are the promotion of environmental protection through scientific research and public education, particularly concerning cetaceans and their natural habitats and the study of peaceful encounters between man, whales, and dolphins.

The MEER research project will run on noonsite.com until the end of 2008.