tursiops.org - Dolphins warning after police alert. UK

lauricedeephd writes "THE Moray Firth's bottlenose dolphin colony have been delighting wildlife watchers along the coast over the past few weeks.

But the influx of visitors has led one wildlife organisation to issue a plea for the public to act responsibly to ensure Scotland remains the number one place in Europe for dolphin watching.

The Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society is concerned following reports of harassment.

Sightings of dolphins in the Moray Firth were reported on 19 days in June from the Dolphin and Seal Centre at North Kessock and on 25 days at Spey Bay.

Harbour porpoises and minke whales have also been reported from the WDCS wildlife centres and other shore-based watching sites around Scotland.

Pilot whales have been spotted near Cromarty in spring and a "super-pod" of common dolphins in Gairloch.

Alice Walters, WDCS Scottish conservation officer said: "We are looking forward to a fantastic season of sightings.

"There are some great land-based watching sites all around Scotland that are really easy to reach by car or on foot.

"If you are out watching by boat on the water, you can ensure the protection of the animals by keeping a safe distance."

WDCS research figures for June indicate visitor numbers are already on the increase.

But the society says a recent police investigation into reports of harassment in the Tay area serves as a warning that a few people can spoil the enjoyment of others and also place the animals in harm's way.

"Seeing whales and dolphins in their natural environment can be an unforgettable experience.

"Scotland has an outstanding diversity of cetacean watching opportunities with its extensive coastline, numerous headlands and rich inshore waters," said Ms Waters.

"All you really need in order to have a chance of seeing a whale or dolphin is a view of the sea and a bit of patience."

For more information about whale and dolphin watching, visit one of the WDCS wildlife centres or go to www.twitter.com and follow "adoptadolphin".

For further information about responsible watching, refer to the Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code or go to www.wdcs.org/

Source: http://www.highland-news.co.uk/"