WDCS calls for awareness on dolphin disturbance

Recent reports of alleged irresponsible recreational boat use in Scotland have led WDCS to call for boat users throughout the UK to be aware of the dangers whales and dolphins face from disturbance by boats.

Under UK law, disturbing or harassing whales and dolphins is an offence, and WDCS is determined to raise awareness in regard to this legislation and encourage people to behave responsibly when they encounter whales and dolphins at sea.

Many species of whale, dolphin and porpoise inhabit the waters around the UK, and our seas include some important feeding and breeding areas for these animals. During the summer, more and more people take to the water and it is essential that they are aware of how to ensure they do not disturb any animals they may encounter.

Vanessa Williams, WDCS Conservation Manager said: "Disturbing dolphins and whales is a crime and needs to be taken seriously. We are extremely fortunate to have whales and dolphins living off the coast of the UK, and many areas around Britain have a thriving dolphin-watching industry, but all that could come under threat if people do not act responsibly in the water.

"The vast majority of dolphin and whale watching tour operators work hard to ensure that their encounters with dolphins and other marine wildlife are carried out in a responsible way. It's important to encourage recreational boat users to do the same thing, as ensuring responsible encounters with whales and dolphins will improve people's enjoyment of these activities whilst respecting the animals' need to carry out their natural behaviour undisturbed."

Advising those who want to see dolphins, Vanessa said: "I urge everyone who wants to watch dolphins to go out with a responsible tour boat, or to watch from the shore. If you have your own boat, please remember that you share the ocean with some magnificent but vulnerable animals, and take care in your interactions with them by following the code of conduct recommended by WDCS."

If you witness any act of disturbance or harassment of whales or dolphins, you should report it to the local police wildlife liaison officer.

WDCS Code of Conduct for Recreational Boats

When watching marine mammals from a boat, please follow these simple guidelines:

Keep your distance. Never go closer than 100m, 200m if another boat is present

Never drive head on to, move between, scatter or separate dolphins

Always slow down when dolphins and whales appear

Maintain forward progress at a slow, steady speed, avoiding any sudden changes in speed or direction

Please spend no longer than 15 minutes near the animals

Special care must be taken with mothers and young

Never try to swim or feed whales and dolphins, for your own safety and theirs

Do not dispose of any rubbish, litter or contaminants at sea

Source: www.wdcs.org