Common dolphins are increasingly being observed closer to Irish shores, a phenomenon attributed to shifting marine ecosystems and rising sea temperatures, according to marine experts. These closer encounters, particularly along the Atlantic coast, have led to spectacular displays of dolphin activity near beaches, delighting onlookers.
Underwater photographer Ken O’Sullivan noted that while these sightings offer an opportunity for ecotourism, there is a growing need for regulation to protect marine life. "There’s a lot of cowboys out there," O’Sullivan stated, referencing instances where unregulated boat traffic, including rigid inflatable boats (RIBs), has disrupted sensitive habitats for species like harbour porpoises. He expressed concern that social media influencers using drones are also disturbing wildlife, sometimes illegally, by getting too close to animals such as basking sharks and dolphins.
Kevin Garvin from the Achill Experience Aquarium explained that the dolphins' proximity to shore is often linked to their hunting behavior. They herd schools of mackerel, cod, and pollock closer to land, sometimes using jumps to stun fish or drive them into shallower waters. Garvin indicated that this behavior has become more common in recent years, partly due to overfishing of mackerel further offshore and rising sea temperatures.
Marine biologist Kevin Flannery of Dingle Aquarium corroborated these observations, noting the return of species like sardines and anchovies to Irish waters due to increased temperatures. These fish, absent for millennia, are now attracting foraging dolphin schools closer to the coast. Flannery added that while native dolphin species are visible year-round, their numbers increase at this time of year as they prepare for winter.
Despite the visual appeal, the increased presence of dolphins near shore has also coincided with stranding events. In a recent incident in west Kerry, eight dolphins were rescued after becoming stranded, with four adults and five calves having already died. Flannery, who assisted in the rescue, highlighted the social nature of dolphins, where mothers often stay with stranded young, leading to further mortalities as they cannot survive long out of the water.
In response to concerns about ecotourism, a spokesperson for the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) stated that the service does not license commercial marine ecotourism activities. However, Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan, launched a Code of Conduct for responsible marine wildlife watching earlier this year. This code, currently being piloted by tour operators in Cork and Kerry, includes guidelines on speeds, distances, and time limits for observing wildlife. The NPWS acknowledges that local reports have indicated that some tour operators may not be adhering to recommended practices.
O’Sullivan also addressed a recent report of a shark bite off the coast of Waterford, describing it as a misrepresentation. He explained that such incidents often occur when sharks, caught by recreational anglers, react defensively while being handled on board for photographs. He contrasted this with the larger issue of human impact on shark populations, noting that millions of sharks are killed by humans annually, while far fewer shark bites occur.