Dolphins – Deilfeanna
There are many types of dolphins that can be spotted off Inishkea the most common being porpoise dolphins, common dolphins & bottlenose dolphins. Dolphins eat mackerel, jellyfish and shrimp.
When to see them? The largest numbers of dolphins can be spotted on Inishkea between February & August.
Did you know? Dolphins have 2 stomachs, they dive up to 1,000 feet & can live for over 50 years!
Whales – Míolta Móra
There are many types of whales that can be spotted off Inishkea the most common being minke whales, humpback whales and fin whales. Whales eat plankton, krill and fish such as mackerel. Full grown adults can eat up to four tonnes of food every day.
When to see them? The largest numbers of them can be spotted off Inishkea between March & July.
Did you know? In the early 1900s whales off Inishkea were captured and killed. They were brought to the Inishkea Whaling Station where their blubber would be stripped and turned into oil before being sold.
Seals – Rónta
Seals are a common sight around Inishkea, with both grey seals and common (harbour) seals often seen lounging on the rocks or swimming near the shore. Seals feed on fish like sand eels, herring, and sometimes squid.
When to see them?
The best time to spot seals around Inishkea is between June & October, especially during low tide when they haul out on the rocks to rest.
Did you know?
Seals can hold their breath for up to 30 minutes, sleep underwater, and grey seals can live for over 40 years!
Inishkea Islands 