Today, 17 September 2026, British Divers Marine Life Rescue is responding to reports of approximately 25 long-finned pilot whales seen swimming in the River Thames.
The whales’ movements, behaviour and condition are being closely monitored by our team of experienced Marine Mammal Medics. This is a developing incident, and further updates will be shared here periodically. As a precaution, specialist whale rescue equipment is being prepared with support from neighbouring regional teams should the whales strand. Marine Mammal Medics will continue to monitor the pod, with teams ready to respond should the situation change.
Long-finned pilot whales typically favour cooler temperate waters offshore beyond the continental shelf in the Atlantic ocean. They form exceptionally close family bonds and several pods may come together temporarily, creating vast “super-pods” numbering in the hundreds often seen in countries such as New Zealand.
The presence of pilot whales in the Thames and southern North sea region is highly unusual, although currently reported to be calm. Whales seen swimming in shallow or enclosed waterways are not necessarily in trouble, however they are at an increased risk of stranding from changing tides, vessel traffic and disturbance. Because of this, we are asking people in the area not to attempt approaching the whales from the land, water, launch drones or attempt to intervene. Any vessels nearby should:
BDMLR asks members of the public to avoid sharing the whales’ location online while the incident is ongoing to help reduce the potential impacts on them from crowds gathering or launching vessels and watercraft to see them. Increased crowds, noise, and vessel activity can cause additional stress and disrupt natural behaviour, potentially putting them at risk of stranding. Their welfare must remain a priority whilst they remain in the Thames estuary and wider region. Cetaceans (whales and dolphins) are protected by law in the UK from intentional or reckless disturbance under the Wildlife and Countryside Act.
If you see the whales, please report the sighting directly to BDMLR’s rescue hotline on 01825 765546, providing their location, direction of travel and any notable behaviour. Photographs or videos taken from a safe distance may also help our team assess the situation.
With thanks to the Port of London Authority and Civil Air Support currently supporting British Divers Marine Life Rescue with this ongoing incident.
Photo credit: Tom Hadley