Orkney Skate Trust
Cover Image © Orkney Skate Trust
The Orkney Skate Trust (OST) is a constituted community group focused on the conservation of the critically endangered Flapper Skate, through a series of projects spanning tag and release angling to egg case research. The OST is at the forefront of research of this little understood yet precariously rare skate, with the data suggesting that the Orkney Islands offer a strategic refuge for the species. The OST is actively involved in data collection through diving and angling activity, as well as public engagement through community science projects such as egg case collections from shorelines.
Our thos is conservation through research and collaboration to reverse the decline of this enigmatic apex predator of our seas. We believe that collectively the community and scientific institutions can work together to influence stake holders and policy makers, helping to protect the Flapper Skate population.
Membership is currently free and open to all. The Orkney Skate Trust strongly relies on the community to record findings and sighting of skate activity. We receive records from beach walkers, divers, anglers and generally people out and on the seas around Orkney and beyond. We record this information and it helps us to better understand how these rare fish are surviving and how best we might be able to assist with their survival.