Reports of marine disturbances to animals on Yorkshire Coast
There has been reports of marine disturbances caused by jet skis and boats on the Yorkshire Coast.
There has been reports of marine disturbances caused by jet skis and boats on the Yorkshire Coast.
The RSPCA, Humberside Police and North Yorkshire Police are urging people to be aware of seals, dolphins and seabirds.
It is after concerns over the last few weekends about the animals at Flamborough and Bempton.
Geoff Edmond, National Wildlife Co-ordinator at the RSPCA, works in Scarborough and York and said:
"We've seen an increased level of disturbance in the marine environment and we needed to join up really to launch a campaign so Operation Seabird was launched. It went very well and the idea is to promote prevention, awareness and education like maintaining a safe distance when you're viewing these wildlife.
"We really want people after lockdown to come out to the coast, wherever you're travelling from, come and enjoy it. People need to get out and appreciate the countryside, the seaside and the wonderful wildlife we've got but we really need you to think about not disturbing it, not approaching too close and maintaining a safe distance.
"Watch the wildlife from a distance; for example if you go too close to seals, it may look like they are inquisitive and looking at you but actually they may feel threatened. When we have the visiting pods of particularly bottlenose dolphins but also harbour porpoises we don't want them disturbing. Some of the dolphins at the moment are swimming with their calf as well.
"There literally is thousands and thousands of breeding birds like the gannets and the puffins and of course, when they're breeding on the cliffs, the other birds and resting on the water below the cliffs. So steer clear of them, don't get too close. If they're having to fly off, then they're using up their energy levels. we really need to protect them and be sensible."
Anyone who sees marine disturbances is asked to call the police on 101.