Warning Issued After Humpback Whales Return to Cornwall: Are You Putting Them at Risk?

Police team up with MMO to protect marine life along Cornwall’s coast

Devon & Cornwall Police are urging the public to take extra care around marine wildlife after sightings of humpback whales off Cornwall’s coast earlier this year sparked a surge in whale watching activity.

The force’s Rural Affairs team has joined with the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) to remind visitors and locals alike about the dangers of disturbing marine mammals. As the weather warms up and more people head to the sea, concerns are growing about the impact of boats, noise and uncontrolled dogs on whales, seals, and other protected species.

Stay back and stay safe

The warning comes as part of Operation Seabird, a national effort to reduce marine wildlife disturbance and promote safe, responsible behaviour near the coast.

Rural Affairs Officer PC Lee Skinner said:
“Cornwall is fortunate to have a spectacular coastline which is home to many species of marine animals and wildlife.
As the weather starts to warm up, it’s important that people visiting coastal areas consider the wellbeing of marine wildlife and take steps to prevent any unnecessary disruption.
This means keeping a safe distance away from whales, seals and other marine wildlife, and keeping noise to a minimum. Dogs must also be kept on leads and under close control around wildlife.
Protecting our coastline is something we take very seriously, and we will continue to work closely with the Marine Management Organisation and other partners to make sure that marine animals are able to live safely in their natural environment, free from human disruption.
I urge anyone who has information or concerns about wildlife crime or disturbance to report it to us. If a wildlife crime is happening now, call 999. Otherwise, information can be provided by calling 101 or using the form on the Devon & Cornwall Police website.”

A closer look at the risks

Humpback whales, which can grow up to 17 metres long and weigh up to 40 metric tons, were spotted off Cornwall earlier this year, attracting attention from wildlife watchers across the UK. Their presence is seen as a positive sign for marine health – but one that brings with it added responsibility.

Jess Churchill-Bissett, Head of Marine Conservation at the MMO, said:
“Whilst tourism is welcomed and important to our economies, the rise in recreational activities taking place along the coast can increase pressure on marine wildlife.
Any recreational activity has the potential to disturb wildlife if not conducted in a safe and responsible manner and, with the increasing popularity of coastal visits, wildlife disturbance is a growing problem.
As many people living in Cornwall will be aware, humpback whales were recently spotted in the region. These large, powerful marine mammals can grow up to 17 metres (56 feet) long and weigh as much as 40 metric tons. Their presence is a positive indicator of the health of our marine environment and has understandably caught the attention of wildlife watchers from across the UK.
We want to stress to people visiting coastal areas that disturbance by boats can cause stress and harm to whales, affecting their ability to feed, breed, or care for their young. It is crucial that boaters and other marine users take care to avoid disrupting marine wildlife.”

Follow the WiSe Code

Over the summer, officers will be promoting the WiSe (Wildlife Safety) Code, developed by marine conservationist Colin Speedie. Key points include:

• Stay at least 100 metres away from whales and other marine wildlife.

• Avoid groups with mothers and calves entirely.

• If animals approach your vessel, switch engines to neutral.

• Never pursue animals – let them move freely.

• Do not touch marine animals – this could be an offence.

How to report wildlife disturbance

Anyone who sees marine wildlife being harassed or put at risk should contact:

• Their nearest MMO office

• Devon & Cornwall Police Rural Affairs team via 101 or by completing the intelligence form

• Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s 24-hour hotline: 0345 201 2626

To learn more about watching wildlife responsibly, visit www.cornwallmarinelifecode.org.uk

Stay informed by signing up to the Devon & Cornwall Alert system or follow the Rural Affairs team on Facebook.

📷Photo Credit: Martin Yelland