Sounding the Alarm: Can New Tech Save Porpoises?

Researchers from the University of St Andrews have captured a significant event on acoustic monitoring kits: two harbour porpoises foraging near a static fishing net off the coast of Cornwall. The recordings show the animals appearing aware of the net, but one became entangled after being distracted. This incident provides vital data that could inform the development of fishing nets designed to be more noticeable and allow larger species to break free.

Bycatch, the accidental entanglement of marine life in fishing gear, is identified as the leading human-induced cause of death for dolphins and porpoises globally. While static net fishing is an important industry practice, this research seeks to develop sustainable solutions to reduce bycatch. Findings could lead to devices emitting warning sounds, making nets safer for marine populations that are already under threat from various environmental factors.