How else can people help, even at home?
By thinking about what you throw away. Plastic is a huge problem for our oceans, and littering causes a lot of harm to wildlife on land and in the sea. Flushing things in the toilet that you shouldn’t will end up in the sea, too. So being responsible about what, and how, you throw things away is a great place to start.
Also, you can buy sustainable fish that has been caught ethically. The Good Fish Guide from the Marine Conservation Society is helpful for this. There’s even an app to help you choose in shops and restaurants.
If someone wanted to start their own citizen science project, what advice do you have?
Speak to the groups that relate to your topic. When I approached the Shark Trust they were so enthusiastic and helpful, and the same can be said of the other conservation groups too. Projects like this can make a big difference in a small way, so if you’ve got an idea – go for it!
Where is your favourite place to spot marine life?
In the whole world? Antarctica. I’ve been lucky enough to spot dolphins and whales, including humpback, minke, and killer whales there.
In the UK, it’s Wembury Point. It’s particularly good for marine wildlife, because the rock structures make it quite sheltered. The Mewstone is also great for the birds to have a haven. The National Trust has done a brilliant job with the area, it would have been much worse off without their care.
And what’s your favourite marine fact?
The sea squirt is more closely related to humans than it is to most of the marine life you’ll find, like starfish or crab.