A pod of 25 Bottlenose Dolphins in Padstow yesterday afternoon was harassed by over 20 pleasure boats, resulting in a young animal being run over and probably killed. Police are investigating and any witnesses should phone 101.
The harassment of Dolphins, Whale and Porpoises (as well as other marine animals) is a criminal offence. If you see it happening then phone the police on 999 immediately. Never put yourself in danger, but if you can, make a note of any distinguishing colours or marks on the vessels causing the harassment. If you have a mobile phone, take video or photos to pass to the police.
The Law
The Law
Cetaceans are offered protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994, as amended, and the Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004. It is an offence:
• to deliberately or recklessly capture, kill, injure or disturb any
whale, dolphin or porpoise;
• to damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place of any
whale, dolphin or porpoise;
• to deliberately or recklessly harass any whale, dolphin, or
porpoise.
Bottlenose dolphin and harbour porpoise are both listed on Annex II of the EC Habitats Directive 1992 as species of community interest whose conservation requires the designation of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs). All whales, dolphins and porpoises are listed on Annex IV as species of community interest in need of strict protection, referred to as European Protected Species.
For further info SEE HERE
