Flapper skates (Dipturus intermedius) are the largest skates in UK waters, reaching over 2 meters (6'6") in length and weighing more than 100kg (220lbs). Once common, their populations have drastically declined, and they are now critically endangered. The Loch Sunart to the Sound of Jura Marine Protected Area (MPA) is a key conservation site dedicated to their protection.

What is SkateSpotter?
SkateSpotter is a mobile app that allows anglers, divers, and researchers to help track flapper skates across Scotland. Simply snap a photo and submit it through the app—your images will be automatically matched by Rate-A-Skate which uses AI similar to that used in fingerprint and face recognition to match skate by their spot patterns. The data in Skatespotter isused by researchers to study skate populations and their movements.

Why Your Photos Matter
- Identify individual skates using their unique spot patterns
- Track skate movements within the MPA and beyond
- Support conservation efforts by helping estimate population sizes
- Expand the SkateSpotter database with every new submission

How It Works
Scientists from SAMS and NatureScot have discovered that each flapper skate has a unique spot pattern on its back, making individual identification possible. By linking images submitted through the SkateSpotter using AI, researchers can monitor population trends and study skate movements over time.

Every submission helps conservation efforts, and we welcome all skate photos.

Please refer to our in-app instructions on skate handling before submitting to ensure the safety and well-being of these incredible animals.