A man has been issued with a police warning after using his jet ski to deliberately disturb a pod of dolphins in Cornwall.<\/p>\n
The incident, which occurred in St Austell Bay in June, saw the man approach the marine mammals and reportedly encourage others to do the same.<\/p>\n
Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed the man, a local resident, was identified and served with a community protection warning.<\/p>\n
This action follows the violation of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which prohibits the intentional and reckless disturbance of dolphins, porpoises, whales, and basking sharks.<\/p>\n
The warning imposes strict conditions, including a ban on following or pursuing any marine wildlife in any watercraft.<\/p>\n
A breach of the warning could result in further prosecution under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act.<\/p>\n
Police sergeant Martin Easter said: \u201cWe\u2019re lucky to have a vast amount of wildlife across the bays in Cornwall. Whilst sightings of these animals is exciting, it\u2019s important we respect their space.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn this case, the individual had no regard for the dolphins or how his deliberate behaviour could cause a disturbance, even hailing for more people to come over and join him in doing so.\u201d<\/p>\n
Sgt Easter added: \u201cOur ask is that people enjoy our waters, but to make sure they do so safely and responsibly.\u201d<\/p>\n
People should try to stay at least 100 metres, or 330 feet, away from marine mammals while in the ocean.<\/p>\n
If this is not possible, they should leave as much space as they can, police said.<\/p>\n