Cetacean strandings project

The Natural History Museum's scientists have been monitoring whale, dolphin and porpoise strandings for almost 100 years. In that time over 14,000 animals have been reported to us, giving us a unique insight into these amazing animals.

What is the Cetacean strandings project?

Mother-calf pair of "Type C" killer whales in the Ross Sea. © http://www.usap.gov

Museum scientists continue to gather information on all whale, dolphin and porpoise strandings along the English coast.

When a whale, dolphin or porpoise stranding is reported to us we find out

where and when they stranded
their species and gender
how and (if possible) why they died

We also collect data, samples and post-mortem information. The data is used to analyse the causes of cetacean strandings, feeding strategies, seasonal distribution and potential threats to cetacean populations.

The Museum’s strandings project, is part of the UK Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP) a co-ordinated investigation across the UK.

Parasites and vectors

Scientists in the division are studying the organisms that transmit parasites and vectors to humans and animals.
Terrestrial invertebrates

Curators, researchers and students are conserving the Museum's vast insect collection, collecting and identifying new species and utilizing the collections for cutting edge entomological research.
Plants

Our scientists study a wide variety of plants, including bryophytes, ferns and flowering plants.