Article
UK Travellers Get New Porpoise to Visit the Netherlands
Published: Mon 05 Aug 2013 at 17:59
Updated: Mon 05 Aug 2013 at 18:00
Researchers working at the Imares Wageningen institute have revealed that an estimated 85,000 porpoise are living in the North Sea off the coast of the Netherlands.
Steve Geelhoed, a researcher at the institute, recently told the publication Trouw that with the porpoise population increasing overall across all territories of the North Sea, more of the graceful creatures have moved into the Dutch part of the sea in search of food.
UK holidaymakers looking for something different can come to Jet2.com for cheap flights to Amsterdam and the surrounding region, where boat tours to various parts of the North Sea are available. Out to sea, tourists can view a myriad of seafaring species of mammal – including dolphins and the minke whale, as well as sea birds like the gannet, kittiwake and the great skua.
A Different Kind of Experience for Amsterdam
While some in the Dutch fishing industry have expressed concerns for porpoise welfare following the revelations of the increased population, measures are being taken to ensure the safety and welfare of the animals as they adjust to new territories.
Derk Jan Berends, speaking on behalf of the Dutch Fisherman’s Association, said fishermen working on the North Sea had noticed the increase.
Researcher Geelhold explained that porpoises use something similar to sonar to navigate the depths and locate food – something which can easily be disturbed by human activity underwater.
However, porpoises have always been a favourite sight on wildlife boat tours. With responsible tour operators being conscious of the population increase, visitors can still book cheap flights to Amsterdam or other locations near the Dutch coast and head out to see the creatures in their natural habitat.
