The Irish Whale and Dolphin Group CLG

The Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG) is a national charitable organisation dedicated to the research, conservation and welfare of cetaceans around the Irish coastline. By coordinating citizen-science reporting of sightings and strandings, running a 24-hour live-stranding hotline, and delivering webinars and educational events, IWDG turns public observations into vital data that underpins scientific studies and informs protective action.

Key services include a robust online platform for reporting whales, dolphins and porpoises, rapid response to live strandings, and a suite of research projects that monitor population trends and habitat use. The group also offers a range of outreach programmes-such as the annual Whale Tales conference, school-focused education resources and a membership scheme-that engage volunteers, schools and the wider community in marine stewardship.

Operating across Ireland, IWDG brings together researchers, volunteers and policymakers to ensure that Ireland's marine mammals receive the protection they need, while fostering a deeper public appreciation of these iconic species.