UK Seas

Discover the wonderful sea creatures that inhabit the UK seas and shores

UK seas is a guide to the fauna and flora found around UK coasts. While the majority of species are marine, some species are included that are regularly encountered on land by the coast, so you’ll find descriptions of non-marine species such as reptiles, amphibians, insects and plants as well.

Harbour porpoise

Phocoena phocoena

Type

Cetaceans, Marine mammals, Porpoise

Description

Small but relatively common, regularly seen around the UK, often close inshore. Dark grey, almost black upper body, and pale below. It has a blunt head shape.

Numbers are declining, despite being protected in our seas.

Location

Much of West Wales, but all around the UK too - look off headlands and island clifftops especially.

Habitat

Open ocean