Tuna find signals species' return to UK waters, experts say

Dorset Wildlife Trust said the large adult tuna died at sea

A large bluefin tuna has washed up dead on the Dorset coast - an indication that the species is making a comeback to UK waters, conservationists said.

The 9ft-long (2.75m) fish died at sea before being washed up at Kimmeridge.

Dorset Wildlife Trust said the apex predators had been absent from UK seas for decades but recently started to make a return to the English Channel.

Marine awareness officer Julie Hatcher said: "It's great to know that bluefin tuna are back in our waters."

Ms Hatcher, a marine biologist, described the large adult as a "magnificent fish".

Bluefin tuna can reach about 10ft (3m) in length

She added: "They don't have any predators of their own here as adults, apart from man.

"Bluefin tuna are often seen now off the coast of Cornwall and out in the Channel, and even from the Dorset coast as well.

"Although it's sad to see this specimen dead, it's great to know that bluefin tuna are back in our waters where they belong."

Currently, it is illegal to fish tuna in the UK, either commercially or recreationally, unless part of a small scientific trial.

Bluefin tuna can reach about 10ft (3m) in length and weigh up to 400kg (880lb).

They can swim up to 43mph (69km/h) in pursuit of prey.

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