Boat, kayak and jetski users in the Highlands urged to give dolphins space by Whale and Dolphin Conservation and the National Wildlife Crime Unit
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Campaigners have warned of an increasing risk of disturbance to dolphins from boats, jetskis, paddleboards and kayaks.
Both Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC) and the National Wildlife Crime Unit (NWCU) say people are not aware of the laws against disturbing cetaceans.
But as the latest lockdown eases, WDC fear a rise in incidents.
Most disturbance is accidental, because many boat users and holidaymakers do not know how to behave around dolphins and are not aware of the rules protecting them, WDC said.
"Whilst we have been locked in as a result of the pandemic nature has reclaimed its spaces, and whales, dolphins and porpoises will have been enjoying quieter waters around the UK," said WDC.
"But, as this lockdown ends and visits to the coast surge, WDC fears that dolphin disturbance incidents in the waters around the UK involving members of the public using leisure craft, jetskis, kayaks and paddleboards could increase.
"Of particular concern is the lack of awareness of the existing laws around disturbance by people using these craft, or who attempt to jump in and swim with dolphins in the sea.
"Marine mammals are sensitive to disturbance, especially when they have young, are resting, feeding or socialising. Human disturbance can frighten them and scare them away from important habitats, and in extreme cases, injury or kill them. Giving marine wildlife space is important, watch them from a good distance and don’t crowd them.
"Incidents are thought to be much higher because many boat users and holiday makers simply do not know what the rules are or how to report incidents they witness."
Prosecutions are rare, yet disturbance is a regular occurrence where the waters are busy and coastal wildlife is most accessible.
WDC staff and volunteers regularly witness disturbance first-hand and receive many reports from concerned marine wildlife enthusiasts, which has prompted the awareness drive.
"Our key aim is to stop disturbance before it happens by raising awareness of the issues," said WDC’s Katie Dyke.
"UK seas are a special place for dolphins and whales, being home to 21 species, more than anywhere else in northern Europe. They are also a rapidly growing destination for marine recreation and tourism, which is increasing levels of disturbance. Many species are seen close to shore and disturbance happens when people get too near to marine wildlife, disrupt their natural behaviours and cause them stress.
"People can be unaware of how to behave around them, so most disturbance is unintentional. A good encounter is one that is enjoyable for you and the whales or dolphins."
Whales, dolphins and porpoises - collectively called cetaceans - which frequent the UK coastline are protected under the Conservation (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1994. This includes protection from disturbance (whether it be reckless or deliberate), harassment, killing and injury, with offences subject to a fine of up to £5000.
Chief Inspector Kevin Kelly, head of the National Wildlife Crime Unit said: ‘‘Give marine mammals space to exhibit natural behaviour in their natural environment without harassment or disturbance. Keep your distance, show respect and be responsible."
Public information on this issue can be found at https://uk.whales.org/our-4-goals/create-healthy-seas/watch-out-for-dolphins-when-you-are-on-the-water
