Further information





Fisheries bycatch

fisheries bycatchThe biggest killer of whales and dolphins across the world is the fishing net. There is no ocean where this is not a serious issue.

We campaign to reduce and where possible eliminate the impact of destructive fishing practices. Our studies find out more about vulnerable whale, dolphin and porpoise populations and illustrate the impact that such fishing practices have on them. This is vital if we are to expose and eliminate these threats.

Common dolphinsJoin Our Campaign To End Whale And Dolphin Deaths In Fishing Nets
A new report by WDCS has revealed the shocking suffering caused by the entanglement of whales, dolphins and porpoises in fishing nets. Join our campaign to end the suffering and death of New Zealand's endangered Hector's and Maui's dolphins.
bycatchCetaceans And Pelagic Trawl Fisheries
The Western Approaches of the English Channel are intensively trawled by pelagic fisheries during the winter and early spring from October to May. These fishing activities coincide with relatively high levels of cetacean strandings.
Northern right whale flukeUSA Fixed Gear Fisheries
Depleted by whaling last century, it is entanglement in fishing lines which, alongside vessel strikes, is primarily responsible for the decline of the north atlantic right whale today.
Harbour porpoiseEuropean Whales And Dolphin Need Your Help
In the battle for survival for the whales and dolphins of the North Atlantic and Baltic, WDCS is working through the ASCOBANS regional agreement to protect these remarkable creatures from the cumulative threats