Visitors flock to Scarborough event aimed at protecting seaside wildlife
The event in Scarborough was organised by the RSPCA and police, and was aimed at stopping people behaving irresponsibly near marine animals such as seals, dolphins as well as nesting birds.
Called Operation Seabird the scheme is a national police-led operation which aims to promote and protect wildlife amid reports of irresponsible behaviour towards a variety of mammals and birds around Britain’s coastline – including here in North Yorkshire.
Common disturbances to wildlife include boats, kayaks and paddleboards deliberately getting too close to seals, dolphins and cetaceans. Sadly this often causes stress to the animals and can result in the females suffering spontaneous abortions or babies being abandoned by their mothers.
With Scarborough becoming well known as a place to spot bottlenose dolphins and other marine wildlife such as minke whales, seals and birds like gannets – the coastal area is becoming evermore popular with visitors.
To help promote the message about the importance of protecting wildlife to tourists and residents in the town the RSPCA teamed up with North Yorkshire police and hosted an advice session at the Wild Eye Seawatching Station on Marine Drive.
Geoff Edmond, the RSPCA’s Wildlife Partnerships manager who was at the event, said: “Every year, the RSPCA’s wildlife centres have to treat and rehabilitate a wide range of wildlife – including seals and seabirds – which have been injured or orphaned due to human disturbance. Seals and pups often come onto land to rest and they should be left in peace to do so.
“While our beautiful beach and coastal areas are great to have fun in and enjoy our wonderful nature, they are natural habitats and breeding grounds for many native and migratory animals, including several species on the endangered list.
“We hope our advice will help safeguard this stretch of coastline, allowing future generations to enjoy the spectacle we see today.”