How to Join Yorkshire's New Lobster Survey and Help Protect Our Oceans

Ever wondered how spotting a lobster on a beach walk could help save the planet? Well, it can! The Whitby Lobster Hatchery has just launched an exciting project called the Yorkshire Lobster Sighting Survey, and they need your help.

Whether you're a seasoned diver or just someone who loves poking around rock pools, your lobster sightings could help shape the future of marine conservation along the Yorkshire coastline.

Image source: https://www.thescarboroughnews.co.uk/community/whitby-lobster-hatchery-launches-yorkshire-lobster-sighting-survey-4945144

What is the Yorkshire Lobster Sighting Survey?

The survey is a citizen science initiative (more on that in a bit) aiming to gather valuable information about lobster populations in Yorkshire. Lobsters aren’t just tasty—they’re vital to the marine ecosystem and the livelihood of many local fisheries. By understanding where they live, how they behave, and how many there are, researchers can better protect these fascinating creatures and ensure fishing practices remain sustainable.

The best part? Anyone can join in. You don’t need a science degree or fancy equipment—just sharp eyes, curiosity, and a willingness to get involved.

What is citizen science?

At its core, citizen science is all about everyday people teaming up with scientists to tackle big environmental challenges. Think of it as a group project, but one where your beachcombing or diving adventures can actually help save the oceans.

"Citizen science bridges the gap between scientists and the public, fostering a collective effort to solve complex environmental issues,"

explains Jonathan Fry, Education Lead at Whitby Lobster Hatchery.

Joe Redfern, the Hatchery's founder, calls it

"an inspiring way for people to connect with nature and make a real difference."

Translation: your lobster photos and sightings could be part of something much bigger.

How does the survey work?

Taking part in the Yorkshire Lobster Sighting Survey is easy:

1. Spot a lobster: While snorkelling, diving, or simply strolling along Yorkshire’s coastline, keep an eye out for lobsters. They love rocky areas, so pay attention near tidal pools and underwater crevices.
2. Log your sighting: Once you've spotted a lobster, fill in a quick online form (at tinyurl.com/lobster-survey) to share your findings. You’ll need to note things like the lobster’s size, location, and the conditions of its habitat.
3. Spread the word: Share the survey with your friends, family, and fellow beachgoers to get even more people involved.

It doesn’t matter if you spot one lobster or a hundred—every observation helps.

Why do lobsters matter?

Lobsters might seem like the grumpy old men of the sea with their spindly claws and awkward walk, but they play a massive role in the marine ecosystem. They’re key predators, helping to balance other species in their habitat, and they’re an important resource for local fishing communities.

The more we understand their movements and behaviours, the better we can protect them. Joe Redfern sums it up perfectly:

"Each submission brings us closer to understanding and preserving these iconic creatures for future generations."

Plus, knowing how lobster populations are doing helps ensure that fisheries can continue to harvest them sustainably without damaging the environment or risking the species' survival.

Want to get involved? Here's how

The survey isn’t just about recording sightings—it’s about building a community of people who care about Yorkshire’s stunning coastline. To help kick things off, the Whitby Lobster Hatchery is hosting introductory sessions for volunteers at the Whitby Marine Discovery Centre.

Here’s when you can join:

• Saturday 25th January at 3pm
• Wednesday 29th January at 6pm

If you can’t make it to the talks, don’t worry—information will be available throughout both days, so there’s plenty of time to get up to speed.

And if you’re still not sure what to look for, the sessions will guide you through the basics of spotting and recording lobster sightings.

Why now?

The Whitby Lobster Hatchery has already been making waves in marine conservation, and this survey is the next big step. Last year, they organised volunteer shoreline searches to map coastal species, and the results were fantastic. The hope is that the Yorkshire Lobster Sighting Survey will continue to build on that success by expanding their knowledge of local lobster populations.

By joining the project, you’ll not only contribute to science but also help protect the ocean for future generations.

Final thoughts

The Yorkshire Lobster Sighting Survey is more than just a fun excuse to explore the beach (although that’s definitely a bonus). It’s a chance to connect with nature, learn about marine life, and make a real difference.

As Joe Redfern says, "This initiative is a fantastic example of how individuals can work together to protect our oceans."

So next time you're out for a walk on the Yorkshire coast, keep your eyes peeled for lobsters. You never know—you might just help change the future of our seas.

To find out more, visit the Whitby Lobster Hatchery website or email them at info@whitbylobsterhatchery.co.uk. Let’s get spotting!