Discovering Wildlife Hotspots Along the South Coast of the UK
Embarking on a sailing adventure along the enchanting south coast of the UK promises breathtaking vistas of rugged cliffs and tranquil harbours and the possibility of encountering various wildlife.
From graceful seabirds gliding overhead to playful dolphins frolicking in the waves, the waters surrounding the southern shores of the UK are a treasure trove of natural wonders waiting to be explored.
Seabirds in Their Element
As you chart your course, be prepared for the skies above to come alive with vibrant hues and intricate flight patterns of seabirds. Along the Dorset coastline, particularly around the iconic limestone arch of Durdle Door and the towering cliffs of Lulworth Cove, keep your binoculars handy for sightings of gulls, terns, puffins, and cormorants. These areas boast thriving breeding colonies, providing a spectacular display of avian activity against the Jurassic Coast’s dramatic scenery.
Mammalian Encounters
The south coast is a haven for marine mammals, offering ample opportunities for unforgettable encounters. As you sail past the chalk stacks of Old Harry Rocks near Swanage, look out for seals basking on the sun-drenched rocks or curiously peeking out of the water. Further east, around the Isle of Wight and the Needles, dolphins and porpoises often appear with their playful antics delighting onlookers and adding an extra dimension of magic to your sailing experience.
Whale Watching
When sailing around Cornwall and Devon, keep a keen eye on the horizon for sightings of whales. Minke whales and fin whales are known to frequent these deep waters, occasionally breaking the surface. The waters around the Isles of Scilly also offer promising opportunities for encounters with these awe-inspiring creatures, adding a thrilling element to your expedition.
Beneath the Surface
The underwater world along the south coast is a bustling metropolis of marine life waiting to be discovered. Sail around the bustling fishing ports of Brixham and Plymouth, and you may be treated to sightings of shoals of mackerel and bass darting through the waters. Closer to shore, the area around Portland Bill is known for occasional visits from basking sharks, the world’s second-largest fish, as they gracefully glide through the nutrient-rich currents in search of plankton.
Guardians of the Deep
When sailing around the Cornish coast, you may be lucky enough to come across two orcas, known as ‘John Coe’ and ‘Aquarius,’. Their distinctive dorsal fins and unique markings make it easy to recognise these elusive creatures. While sightings of orcas in Cornwall have often been shrouded in uncertainty, an encounter back in 2021 offered proof of their presence in UK waters.
A Voyage of Discovery
Sailing along the south coast of the UK can be an immersive wildlife adventure like no other. From the bustling seabird colonies perched atop towering cliffs to the majestic whales traversing the depths, every moment on the water offers the chance to witness the wonders of the natural world in all their glory.
So, set sail, explore these wildlife hotspots, and prepare to be captivated by the rich tapestry of life that awaits along the shores of the southern UK coastline.
