Over the years I've seen quite a lot when it comes to the daily lives of our little harbour porpoise as they go about the business of survival. From witnessing a birth, mating behaviour, feeding, group feeding, socialising and all manner of other activity. So I guess it was only a matter of time before I bore witness to the end of this wonderful life cycle and that time came today. It was towards the end of a quite productive survey for this time of year and in the given conditions. Several porpoise were observed feeding well in the tide race in front of the lookout so I was happy to be able to get some shots as so far this has been a lean month due to all the storms we've had.
I then noticed a single porpoise which was I though logging on the surface, so naturally I rattled off a few shots. It soon became apparent that there was something wrong as it was almost lifeless and being carried along with the tide. It made an attempt to push against the tide only managing a few metres before again becoming still at the surface. The fin at this time was folding over and it seemed to be having a problem staying upright. A few more attempts to swim seemed to be the last effort in this little porpoise's life as soon it was unable to even do that. Eventually I fear it succumed to the inevitable and was swept west into the turmoil which is the 10-12ft overfalls north of the lighthouse. With a feeling of imense sadness and a tear in my eye I bid it farewell and wished it God's speed.
On a happier note the other images from todays survey turned up one marked animal which I'm sure I've seen before and a few others besides.
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