This month, Cornwall’s coastline has become a hotspot for whale sightings. This includes humpback whales - large, beautiful and powerful wild animals that can range in length from 14–17 m (46–56 ft) and weigh up to 40 metric tons!
These spectacular sightings are a thrilling experience for wildlife watchers. Humpbacks feast on krill and small fish. They follow their food, Meaning their presence may be a positive indicator of the health of our marine environment and underwater ecosystems.
But with the excitement brought by these awe inspiring and captivating marine mammals, comes responsibility. We remind everyone to follow safe wildlife-watching practices to protect these incredible animals — and to avoid breaking the law.
Image credit @Martin Yelland
Be responsible for the safety of whales as well as your own
All dolphins, porpoises and whales are protected by wildlife legislation, including the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Under the Act it is an offence to intentionally and/or recklessly disturb these animals, with offences of disturbance carrying a maximum penalty of six months imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine.
Disturbance by boats can cause stress and harm to whales, affecting their ability to feed, breed or nurture their young.
Follow the WiSe code
To ensure the safety and appropriate protection of these animals, MMO recommend that boat and vessel owners follow the Wildlife Safe (WiSe) scheme.
The scheme, which is a UK standard for commercial marine wildlife watching, includes a code of conduct and sets out best practice for wildlife watching. The code includes that boats should:
- Stay at least 100 metres away from the animals.
- Avoid groups of mothers and young completely.
- Switch engines into neutral if animals actively come over to boats.
- Animals must not be actively pursued when they move away, and if they bow ride alongside vessels, vessels should not increase their speed or change course.
- Animals must not be touched as this could be considered an offence.
Further information on safe wildlife watching can be found at Marine & Coastal Wildlife Code and Watch out for whales and dolphins when you are near the coast - Whale and Dolphin Conservation
Image credit @Adrian-Langdon
Report a disturbance event
If you see whales being disturbed, please contact your nearest MMO office or local police force wildlife crime officer on 101.
In Cornwall incidents can also be reported to the Cornwall Wildlife Trust on their 24 hour hotline 0345 201 2626 immediately.
If possible, photographs or video footage should also be taken of these concerns. These incidents will then be passed to the relevant enforcement authority.
Find out more about MMO's role in marine conservation, protected species and marine wildlife licences.
For any queries or questions please contact conservation@marinemanagement.org.uk
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