A WARNING has been issued by conservationists after footage was shared online of boats getting “too close” to orcas when they were spotted “hunting” in the Moray Firth.
Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC) said they were delighted to see footage, which was widely shared across social media, of orcas along the Moray coast last week.
However, they added they were “disappointed” that footage also emerged of boats getting too close, staying too long, and not allowing the orcas to travel freely back out to open water.
The charity reportedly said it believes the animals may have been hunting for seals as they travelled east.
Conservationists added that it is a criminal offence to disturb whales and dolphins.
Scots have been asked to follow the Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code, by staying 100 meters away, not overstaying their welcome as 15 minutes is enough time to watch, and have been urged not to chase them.
Alison Rose, manager of the Scottish Dolphin Centre, which WDC runs, said the footage of the boats that allegedly got too close to the orcas has been shared with police.
She said: “Staff and volunteers based at the Scottish Dolphin Centre were delighted to see the orca along the Moray coast on Friday evening. “Many people were thrilled to watch this amazing group of individuals who may well have been hunting for seals as they travelled east.
“However, we were disappointed to see footage circulating online of boats getting too close to the orca, staying too long, and not allowing them to travel freely back out to open water.
“This footage has been shared with Police Scotland, as it is a criminal offence to disturb whales and dolphins.
“We urge all water users to give all marine animals space, and to follow the Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code by staying 100 meters away, not over staying your welcome – 15 minutes is enough and don’t chase.”
