Sound Trap study

This study will continue the development of the four channel sound traps and begin to investigate porpoise movements around static nets. It will seek to answer some initial questions, including: is there independent evidence that they can detect nets (i.e. deliberate avoidance); how often do they come very close to nets; are they feeding on or near nets; and does the presence other species (dolphins) affect the way they behave? This will enhance our understanding to the causes of bycatch and will help in the development of effective bycatch mitigation measures. Reducing bycatch in UK waters is an Ministerial priority and has been publicly committed to on several occasions in recent months.