APPEAL FOR WITNESSES TO DOLPHIN INCIDENT

We are sure you are all aware by now of the dolphin harassment incident at Padstow on Saturday 20th July. We are appealing for witnesses to the incident to call the police wildlife crimes team on 101. We especially want to hear from you if you have VIDEO FOOTAGE. This is critical when it comes to viewing the behaviour of the animals so an expert witness can tell us how they are being harassed.

 

There has been a lot of comments on social media about this incident including some from possible witnesses. We would appeal to those people to also call the police. Some of the comments have been very negative about the police, so may we take this opportunity to assure you we will be investigating this crime thoroughly with a view to prosecuting any offenders identified.

http://www.nwcu.police.uk/news/wildlife-crime-press-coverage/cornwall-dolphin-boat-death-investigated/

Marine Wildlife Harrassed to Death!!

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

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

  

Marine Wildlife Crimes Training

Officers from D&C Wildlife Crimes Group attended a morning of Marine Crimes Training last week hosted by Cornwall College at the Durrell Centre for Wildlife Education, Newquay. (What a superb venue!!)

We were treated to a very interesting talk by Faye Archell about many aspects of Marine crime that we as officers may have to deal with. The programme followed a species theme, with each animal or family group discussed individually. It was a great opportunity to learn a bit about the animals lifestyles and movements as well as the laws and legislation surrounding each one. After this we all joined with staff at the college in the lecture theatre to discuss the job of a WCO. After an impromptu but informative speech by Sgt Dave Knight, each WCO in turn stood up (some remained seated!) and explained their current role in the force as well as a bit about themselves and the WCO role.

This was very well received by the staff and there was of course a few humorous moments! A short question and answer session followed before we retired for a very nice lunch! We must say a big thanks to all the staff at Cornwall College for being such superb hosts and allowing us to meet at their wonderful facility. It is hoped we have formed a strong bond with the college which we will enhance in the future with more partnership training for staff, students and WCO's.

 

For more information on best practice for watching marine wildlife see HERE