Picture of mackerel at Highcliffe by Mel Pinchen
WINTER storms could be the reason for the large mackerel shoals feeding off the Dorset coast.
Large shoals have been reported all along the South West coast.
Marine experts say the storms could have released more nutrients, meaning larger numbers of the mackerel’s preferred food whitebait.
National Marine Aquarium assistant curator James Wright said: “We’ve seen big shoals of whitebait attracting the mackerel. This year they seem to be very close to shore.”
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