Risso’s dolphins (Grampus griseus) are widely distributed across the North Atlantic, yet their population status, ecological requirements, and vulnerability to human pressures remain poorly understood. Recent large-scale surveys, data compilations (including strandings data) and long-term photo-identification studies highlight regional hotspots around the British Isles, Ireland, France and the Azores, while genetic analyses reveal significant population differentiation between European Atlantic waters and the Mediterranean. Despite these advances, conservation challenges persist, including fisheries interactions, prey availability, chemical pollution, acoustic and anthropogenic disturbance, and coastal development.
This half-day workshop aims to synthesize current knowledge, identify priority actions, and the key components of an ASCOBANS conservation plan for the species. By fostering dialogue across disciplines and jurisdictions, the workshop aims to translate research findings into meaningful conservation actions, ensuring that Risso’s dolphins receive the targeted protection necessary to safeguard their future in the North Atlantic.
The workshop is part of the European Cetacean Society (ECS) conference, taking place in Dundee, Scotland, UK. Registrations can be done through the ECS website by 10 April 2026.
If you would like to contribute relevant information to this workshop, please complete this short form by 15 April 2026.
For any questions you can contact the ASCOBANS Secretariat, [email protected] .
