This is a phase 2 project building on the tag and release training programme given by the Orkney Skate Trust. 

The Orkney Skate Trust will soon be seeking funding to start this project.

The programme will use trained volunteers in tag and release to actively target Flapper Skate in Orkney using angling techniques. 

 Rationale

Although the Orkney Skate population would appear at first glance to be in a healthier condition than stocks elsewhere in the UK, it is still under varying levels of fishing pressure. Therefore, there is a clear need for a research program that looks into the current state of the Orkney population at greater detail. This research would help to conserve the Orkney stock of fish through a community driven project that involves the establishment of an Orkney Skate capture, tag, release and recapture programme. Tagging is a non-destructive method used to provide scientific data such as fish migration, growth rates and behaviour as well as assessing population dynamics.

A small numbered dart tag is carefully inserted into the Skate which will be unique to that fish. Data recorded will include capture location, date, fish length, width and weight and will be catalogued with photos under the unique tag ID number. Upon later recapture of the fish the same data is retaken, the findings can then be studied revealing crucial scientific information on the rare Flapper Skate

The tagging data we obtain is studied to try and understand skate temporal and spatial movements, as well as growth rates and condition. The research allows us to draw conclusions regarding key biological and ecological information that will help us to better understand the species, including how we can protect it through conservation measures and management. All data from the research will be displayed within Geographical Information System map. This allows the information to be examined clearly and quickly and will quickly demonstrate areas of skate activity around Orkney. It also means that we are able to quickly inform anglers of where and when a tagged fish was originally tagged and released, as well as any subsequent history.

If you are interested in this project and wish to find out more information please contact the OST.