Menu
17/09/2008
Blue Whale Spotted Off Kerry
The world's largest living animal, the blue whale, has made its fist trip to Ireland in what is thought to be island's first validated sighting.
A member of the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG) claimed to have seen the whale while aboard a fishing vessel searching for albacore tuna on Tuesday off the Kerry coast.
According to the group: "At least one and probably two very large whales approached the MV Atlantic Explorer."
The whales approached within range for a photograph, and at least one of which was later identified as a blue whale.
A spokesman for the IWDG said: "Identification was confirmed by their very pale colouration, unique mottling pattern and the thick muscular column which runs along their back."
According to studies in the North Atlantic by Cornell University, USA, upwards of 50 blue whales pass through Irish offshore waters late Autumn/early winter on what is presumably a southbound migration.
The blue whale is the largest mammal, possibly the largest animal, to ever inhabit the earth, growing up to 110ft in length, and weighing as much as 181 tonnes.
(DW/JM)
A member of the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG) claimed to have seen the whale while aboard a fishing vessel searching for albacore tuna on Tuesday off the Kerry coast.
According to the group: "At least one and probably two very large whales approached the MV Atlantic Explorer."
The whales approached within range for a photograph, and at least one of which was later identified as a blue whale.
A spokesman for the IWDG said: "Identification was confirmed by their very pale colouration, unique mottling pattern and the thick muscular column which runs along their back."
According to studies in the North Atlantic by Cornell University, USA, upwards of 50 blue whales pass through Irish offshore waters late Autumn/early winter on what is presumably a southbound migration.
The blue whale is the largest mammal, possibly the largest animal, to ever inhabit the earth, growing up to 110ft in length, and weighing as much as 181 tonnes.
(DW/JM)
Related Irish News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
13 March 2024
How Much Gambling Takes Place in Ireland?
When we think of Ireland, we may think of many things ranging from lush green landscapes to Guinness and Irish dancing, but it may be surprising to learn that the country has a passion for gambling.
How Much Gambling Takes Place in Ireland?
When we think of Ireland, we may think of many things ranging from lush green landscapes to Guinness and Irish dancing, but it may be surprising to learn that the country has a passion for gambling.
26 February 2024
Exploring The Rise Of The Latest Irish Online Casinos
Today, online casinos are more popular than ever. They have attracted players from all over the world and the country of Ireland is no exception.
Exploring The Rise Of The Latest Irish Online Casinos
Today, online casinos are more popular than ever. They have attracted players from all over the world and the country of Ireland is no exception.
14 March 2024
Ministers Praise Critical Work Of Ireland Funds
The First Minister and deputy First Minister have praised the work of Ireland Funds, highlighting its critical role in promoting and supporting peace. Michelle O'Neill and Emma Little-Pengelly, speaking at the Ireland Funds Gala in Washington, welcomed the positive and real impact made across society by the philanthropic body.
Ministers Praise Critical Work Of Ireland Funds
The First Minister and deputy First Minister have praised the work of Ireland Funds, highlighting its critical role in promoting and supporting peace. Michelle O'Neill and Emma Little-Pengelly, speaking at the Ireland Funds Gala in Washington, welcomed the positive and real impact made across society by the philanthropic body.
14 August 2012
Fin Whale Stranded In Baltimore Harbour
A 12-metre (40ft) fin whale has gotten into difficulty in Baltimore harbour, and is stuck against the pier wall in west Cork. The creature came in to the harbour on a low tide and initially moved 300 to 400 metres offshore before coming back to the small port.
Fin Whale Stranded In Baltimore Harbour
A 12-metre (40ft) fin whale has gotten into difficulty in Baltimore harbour, and is stuck against the pier wall in west Cork. The creature came in to the harbour on a low tide and initially moved 300 to 400 metres offshore before coming back to the small port.
12 March 2024
How Much Gambling Takes Place in Ireland?
When we think of Ireland, we may think of many things ranging from lush green landscapes to Guinness and Irish dancing, but it may be surprising to learn that the country has a passion for gambling.
How Much Gambling Takes Place in Ireland?
When we think of Ireland, we may think of many things ranging from lush green landscapes to Guinness and Irish dancing, but it may be surprising to learn that the country has a passion for gambling.
-
Ireland WeatherToday:Some low cloud lingering in the north and west through the day, although cloud should burn back to the coast as the day goes on. Elsewhere some good sunny spells with very little cloud. Warm with light winds. Maximum temperature 22 °C.Tonight:A sunny evening for most except where cloud lingers along the north coast. Cloud will increase for a lot of areas overnight with mist and fog patches developing. Minimum temperature 7 °C.
