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.

How to report a stranding

What would you do if you found a stranded whale on your local beach ? Find out more about how you can help by reporting a stranding.
Why are we monitoring strandings ?

Discover how monitoring whale and dolphin strandings can tell us more about the behaviour and ecology of these fascinating animals.
How did it start?

Discover more about how the Museum's involvement in the UK Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP) is evolving over time.
A list of UK species

Discover which whales, dolphins and porpoise you can find around the coast of the UK.