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Fishy tales abound as the waters warm up

April 28th, 2017 3:02 PM

By Southern Star Team

Castletownbere photographer Niall Duffy picture of one of the five humpback whales which he spotted recently off the Beara peninsula.

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The May Bank Holiday weekend could see something of a boon for whale-watching tours as recent weeks have prompted several sightings along the West Cork coast.

THE May Bank Holiday weekend could see something of a boon for whale-watching tours as recent weeks have prompted several sightings along the West Cork coast.

Whether it’s a combination of the good weather, more abundant food, or a mix of both, social media has come alive with photos of whales, dolphins, and seals.

‘Although sightings occur at any time of the of the year, April, May and June when the weather is warm and the seas are calm, are some of the nicest times of the year for a whale watching trip,’ said Nic Slocum of Whale Watch West Cork.

As our readers’ pictures show, there has been plenty of recent activity from these magnificent creatures of the deep in West Cork, and the warm weather and blue skies have certainly helped.

Castletownbere photographer Niall Duffy reckons he spotted the first humpback whales of 2017 off the Beara peninsula on April 11th, with the Bere Island Sea Safari. ‘Five separate humpback whales were recorded feeding, with up to 400 common dolphins,’ he said.

Whale-watchers are advised to have cameras at the ready this weekend, and don’t forget, when approaching water, always wear a personal flotation device.

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