African Wildlife & Environment Issue 81

WESSA LEADERSHIP FWF NE SLETT R 2 (2022)

Sea Search Research and Conservation (SSRC) SSRC is a not-for-profit organisation that conducts high quality, internationally recognised scientific research, which feeds back into education and policy recommendations. Our focus is scientific research output, education and advice to managers with the overarching aim of promoting the conservation of cetaceans.

The Sea Search team using the Ford Ranger to access more remote parts of the West coast during their investigation of the unusual seal die-off in late 2021. This research involves counting animals, dead animals, investigating differences in sex and age classes across areas and time, and most importantly collecting biological samples for analysis by collaborating vets and pathologist.

SSRC leads a series of marine mammal research and conservation projects in southern Africa with most research taking place in the Western Cape and Namibia. We also collaborate on several regional and international projects. Our current main research themes are: • Bioacoustics with a focus on whales and dolphins in southern Africa • Southern African Cape Fur Seal project - work across Namibia and South Africa • SouSA Consortium – Conserving the Humpback Dolphin • Namibian Dolphin Project – Research, Conservation and Education in Namibia The Sea Search team using the Ranger to tow and launch their research vessel Lula at Saldanha Bay Yacht Club to conduct research on whales and dolphins in this rapidly developing area.

Human use of the oceans for shipping, fishing, aquaculture and recreation is widespread and continues to grow. Of particular concern is the large feeding groups of Humpback Whales which form in summer months along the west coast where animals frequently encounter large ships and death from ship-strike is known to be increasing. Can knowledge of their acoustic behaviour help us to develop an early-warning system to reduce interactions?

9 | African Wildlife & Environment | Issue 81 (2022)