#MarineWildlife - The arrival of minke whales and a host of other whale and dolphin species around Ireland's coast seems like a good omen for this year's All Ireland Whale Watch Day this Sunday 23 August, according to the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG).
Members of the public are invited to join the IWDG on one of 20 land-based whale watches being held at headlands around the Irish coast between 2pm and 5pm.
The purpose of Whale Watch Day is to raise awareness of the 24 species of cetaceans (porpoises, dolphins and whales) that have been recorded in Irish waters, by giving the public an opportunity to observe some of these wonderful marine mammals in their natural environment.
This event also provides IWDG researchers with a unique snapshot of whale and dolphin activity around the entire Irish coast. By taking part in this event you are supporting whale and dolphin conservation in Ireland, says the IWDG's Pádraig Whooley.
This annual, all-island event, organised by the IWDG in association with Inis Cologne, is as ever free and open to all. All watches are land-based and led by experienced IWDG personnel who will show you how to observe and identify some of the more commonly observed cetacean species seen in Irish waters.
You should bring binoculars or a spotting scope and dress appropriately for outdoor conditions. There are no boat trips involved, and there are of course no guarantees that you will see whales or dolphins during your particular event.
For more on the day, held in tandem with Heritage Week, visit the IWDG website HERE.