Cod Ymddygiad ar gyfer Adar y Môr
Code of Conduct for Seabirds
March to July is a particularly sensitive time, as birds come ashore to nest. Sensitive sites include steep cliffs and inlets. The Pembrokeshire coastline and offshore islands have nationally and internationally important populations of seabirds.
The Pembrokeshire Marine Code of Conduct for Seabirds
Plan trips carefully and with respect to agreed site specific access restrictions. They are in place to protect wildlife for future generations.
Observe birds’ reactions from a distance. Be aware at 100m and keep at least 50m* away from seabirds.
*The distance at which marine wildlife show signs of agitation varies tremendously, depending on the location, the type of approach, whether the animals are used to being watched and whether they have young with them. Be responsive to their behaviour.
Auks (guillemots, razorbills) incubate eggs on their feet. If they fly off ledges in a panic their eggs are dislodged and destroyed.
On open water you may encounter rafts of seabirds. Avoid causing disturbance to rafting birds as they may regurgitate food meant for their young/take flight during valuable resting time.
Signs of Disturbance: Seabirds
Head craning, head turning, head bobbing, and wing flapping in situ. Do not proceed if you observe this as you will make them fly.
*The distance at which marine wildlife show signs of agitation varies tremendously, depending on the location, the type of approach, whether the animals are used to being watched and whether they have young with them. Be responsive to their behaviour.
Additional Behaviour Requests
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Plan ahead
Keep an eye out for wildlife: avoid sensitive areas, large concentrations of birds/seals, and seasonal breeding areas. Check the agreed access restrictions maps for specific areas before you go out onto the water.
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Keep your distance
Getting too close can cause stress to wildlife, egg or pup abandonment, exhaustion, or injury.
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Reduce speed and sound
Reducing speed and holding a steady course will reduce disturbance, especially in regard to cetaceans. Loud noises can disrupt seals and seabirds, especially at pupping/moulting and nesting times.
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Know how to view wildlife
By knowing minimum wildlife viewing distances, suggested boat speeds and behaviour that indicates disturbance* will reduce our impact on marine wildlife.
Download the Pembrokeshire Marine Code of Conduct for Seabirds
Enjoy wildlife responsibly, even offline—download the Pembrokeshire Marine Code of Conduct for Seabirds and keep it handy to protect these incredible creatures while exploring our coastlines.
Wildlife disturbance
To report reckless disturbance of marine wildlife or other suspected wildlife crimes, contact:
- Police Non-Emergency Contact: 101
- Police Marine Unit: 01267 226129
- Marine Code Project Officer: 07989 218489
Report animals in distress
To report instances of stranded marine wildlife or animals in distress, contact:
- RSCPA: 03001 234999
- Bird Rescue: 01834 814397 / 07771 507915
- Pembrokeshire County Council: 01437 764551
- Maritime & Coastguard Agency: 01646 690909
- Welsh Marine Life Rescue co-ordinator, Terry Leadbetter: 01646 692943 / 07970 285086
- British Divers Marine Life Rescue: 01825 765546
- Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP): 01239 683033 to report a dead stranded porpoise, dolphin or turtle
Key Contacts
For general enquiries related to the Pembrokeshire marine environment, contact:
- Skokholm Island Warden: 07971 114303
- Skomer Island Warden / Visitor Officer: 07971 114302 / 07530 796150
- Skomer MCZ Officer: 01646 636736
- Marine Energy Test Area (META) Operations Manager: 07944 839332
- Ramsey and Grassholm Island Warden: 07796 611951
- South Pembs Natural Resources Wales: 01646 661368
- Caldey Island Warden: 01834 844453
- Milford Haven Water Ranger: 01646 696100
- To report sightings of whales, dolphins & porpoise, contact Sea Watch Foundation: 01407 832892