1. British Marine Life Pictures
Find out what really lurks beneath the surface of our oceans with this extensive photographic collection of marine life found off the British Isles. There are nearly 600 images carefully categorised by type of animal and each includes a mention of where the photograph was taken. You can also help to identify unknown animals too.

2. Sea Watch Foundation
Want to go whale watching but can’t afford a trip to New Zealand? If you can make it to Swansea, Fife or Kent then you’re in with a good chance of spotting a whale without blowing your budget. The Sea Watch site reveals a wealth of information about the cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises) they protect – including the best places in the UK to see them. It’s easily navigable and there are plenty of pictures to break things up. The site also posts details of recent sightings.

3. Marine Conservation Society
If you’re interested in finding out more about sustainable fishing then this is the site for you. With sections on fishing for the future, sustainable seafood, a good fish guide and deepwater fisheries, you’re sure to find what you need. There’s also information on protected species and a link to a website called www.yourseasyourvoice.com where you send in information about areas you think should be protected.

4. British Marine Life Study Society
This comprehensive site is a bit tricky to navigate – and could definitely be laid out more clearly – but once you find what you’re looking for, it’s worth the search. There’s a general species list, complete with photographs and a history of UK shark sightings, which makes interesting reading, and information on what to do if you come across a beached whale – always useful!

5. MarLIN
MarLIN, the marine life information network, is the place to go for all things maritime. The biodiversity and conservation section is particularly useful if you want to find out about a specific species or habitat. If you’d like to get involved and record your sightings, there’s a simple section explaining what to do and you can access in-depth reports from experts like the UK’s Marine Biological Association.

6. Cornwall Wildlife Trust
The stunning pictures on the front page of this website are enough to get you on the next bus to Cornwall, but that’s not all this site offers. The news section is full of up-to-date local reports, and the conservation section allows you to find out about local projects, including the living seas project. Click on this and you can find out all about the marine life in the area.

7. Scottish Natural Heritage - Seals
Discover everything about seals in this simple but effective site. Find out how to identify the cuddly critters and the best places in Scotland for a sighting. The what’s special section is full of interesting facts. For instance, did you know that seals can’t smell underwater or that seal milk is more than 50 percent fat?
 
8. UK Safari Wildfiles
This easy-to-use site contains information on a wide variety of animals, including marine mammals and marine wildlife. Click on an animal to find out basic background information such as its diet, habitat and Latin name. If you want additional reading, a list of related articles is helpfully located at the bottom of the page.

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Related Links on the Countryfile Magazine website:

• NEWS: MPs call for ban on seal shootings off Scottish coast
• Discover the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path
• British Wildlife Watch - Go rockpooling