Study finds oil platform removal moved porpoises

The behaviour of porpoises in the Moray Firth was studied

A study has found that marine mammals are affected by offshore decommissioning work - but their behaviour returns to normal when a project is complete.

Aberdeen University researchers studied the impact on porpoises in the Moray Firth during the work to remove the Jacky platform.

They found the noise levels in the water increased by up to 40 decibels due to a number of vessels that were present during the decommissioning work.

The porpoises were displaced, but by less than 2km (1.2 miles), which is similar to the effect that any vessel generally has on the mammals.

It is hoped the study will now be used to provide evidence for the consenting process of future decommissioning projects.