Whale sightings prompt Exeter marine warning

Visitors to Devon and Cornwall's coastal waters are being urged to take extra care when watching marine wildlife, as police teams warn of increasing pressure on whales, dolphins, and seals around the region.

The call comes following a series of rare humpback whale sightings along the South West coastline earlier this year – including near hotspots such as Exmouth, Dawlish, and Teignmouth – and as part of the national Operation Seabird initiative.

Devon & Cornwall Police’s Rural Affairs team has teamed up with the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) to raise awareness of how human activity – especially boat trips, paddleboarding, and off-lead dogs – can disrupt marine animals’ feeding, breeding and migration patterns.

PC Lee Skinner, Rural Affairs Officer, said, “Cornwall and Devon are lucky to have a spectacular coastline that’s home to whales, dolphins, seals and other marine life.

“As we head into the warmer months and more people enjoy the sea, we’re asking everyone to think twice before approaching marine animals. The best wildlife watching is done at a distance – it protects the animals and helps keep everyone safe.”

Exeter’s waters have long been known as a corridor for ocean giants, with Devon Wildlife Trust confirming that minke whales, fin whales, dolphins and even the elusive humpback whale are increasingly spotted along the south coast. Lyme Bay and the Exe Estuary are among areas where sightings are becoming more frequent, often just a short journey from the city.

As part of their campaign, the police and MMO are promoting the WiSe Code – a set of guidelines created by veteran conservationist Colin Speedie for safe and responsible marine wildlife encounters.

The advice includes:

• Keeping at least 100 metres away from whales and dolphins

• Avoiding all mothers and calves

• Switching engines to neutral if animals approach

• Never touching or chasing marine life

Jess Churchill-Bissett, Head of Marine Conservation at the MMO, said, “Disturbing whales with boats or jet skis may seem harmless, but it can cause real stress. It disrupts feeding, social behaviour and, in severe cases, even leads to injury.

“As sightings increase near the Devon coast, it’s vital that we all play our part in helping these majestic creatures thrive in our waters.”

Whale watchers in Exeter and the surrounding coastal areas – including Sidmouth, Budleigh Salterton and Dawlish – are being urged to report any suspected wildlife disturbance or harassment.

Boaters and paddleboarders are particularly encouraged to brush up on local wildlife codes before heading out on the water.

Report marine wildlife disturbance by calling 101, or the Cornwall Wildlife Trust 24-hour hotline: 0345 201 2626, or visiting the MMO regional offices website.