Marine Wildlife Disturbance Guidance Documents
Date published:
Last updated:
This page provides links to documents that should be referred to by all water users, including the general public, for best practice guidance to avoid marine wildlife disturbance. There is guidance for a wide range of marine and coastal users, from boat users, to paddle boarders/kayakers, to dog walkers and walkers/hikers. The documents also contain useful contact information for a range of marine and coastal issues.
Further information can be obtained by contacting the Marine Conservation team at:
MarineConservation@daera-ni.gov.uk
Marine Disturbance Leaflet
The document in the leaflet link at the bottom of this page provides detailed guidance on how water users should behave around marine wildlife to avoid disturbance wherever possible, as well as information on the behaviour and sensitivities of marine animals including whales, dolphins and porpoises (Cetaceans), seals, basking sharks, and seabirds. The document also provides contact information across DAERA and Non-Government Organisations for a broad range of issues, from how to report wildlife crime, to water pollution. This document is meant to be used as a more detailed best practice guide to be read and understood before engaging in any activity in a marine or coastal area.
Marine Disturbance Postcard
The document in the postcard link at the bottom of this page provides a visual guide how water users should behave around marine wildlife to avoid marine wildlife disturbance wherever possible, emphasising the ‘keep your distance’ rule. The document also provides more specific contact information related to the most urgent issues water users may encounter. This includes who to contact when water users encounter wildlife crime, sick or injured seal pups or turtles, sick or injured small animals or birds and dead or live stranded marine life such as whales, dolphins or porpoises. This document is best used as a quick reference guide when out on the water or using coastal areas.
At A Glance
