Last Saturday, we had a superb, extensive sea trial with Spirit of our Seas and got to see the outstanding biodiversity of marine life that Falmouth has to offer! The trial started with some incredibly interesting plankton and micro-plastic tows throughout Falmouth Bay, producing some very intriguing results. These results showed us that there were large amounts of microplastics found all around the Bay as well as lots of plankton. But, the find of the day has to be the catch of a species of sole in its fry form and the masses of copepods in some of the samples as well!
On our journey out into the Bay, we witnessed several amazing flotillas of spectacular shags, all showcasing their astonishing ability to dive. We also witnessed a singular fulmar and a collection of gulls and kittiwakes all showcasing the biodiversity present in Falmouth Bay. But, on top of all these wonderful discoveries we were treated to the thrilling hunt of a merlin, which incredibly led to its prey, a finch, landing onboard Spirit of our Seas whilst the majestic merlin hovered above us! A truly astonishing and rare sight for everyone! After moving on from that site, we were treated to the appearance of a whole plethora of different gannets, guillemots, and razorbills who helped us to uncover a group of 4 amazing harbour porpoises who chose to join all of us who were on the afternoon trial! It’s always a wonderful time to see these amazing cetaceans!
