Marine Mammals

Fifteen cetacean species have been recorded along the Grampian coast since 1990, making the region one of the richest cetaceans in the UK. Of these, nine have been recorded regularly, with three species occurring frequently. These are bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises, and minke whales. Prior to 2008 White Beaked Dolphins were also a very regular visitor. In 2005 they were the most recorded species however they have now become a very rare sight.

Different cetacean species exhibit different seasonal peaks of occurrence. Bottlenose dolphins can be seen year-round but peak occurrence and peak numbers both take place between October and May. Harbour porpoises also may be seen year-round but with peak occurrence and numbers in August – September. June – August. Minke whales are also seasonal, with no sightings outside March – August, and most between June and August. 

Bottlenose dolphins are a common site at the entrance to Aberdeen Harbour.