Reminder for jet skiers to follow marine code

COUNCIL HITS OUT AFTER SHOCKING VIDEO OF SEA BIRD DISTURBANCE

COUNCIL chiefs have urged jet skiers to follow the marine code, after a group were seen ploughing through sea birds on Anglesey.

Photographer and ecologist Ben Porter looked in on horror as four of the vehicles blasted among the birds near South Stack, last Thursday (pictured above). He posted a video of the incident on Twitter, which saw scores back his calls for greater regulation of jet skis and better wildlife protection, around the coast.

Now Anglesey County Council (ACC) has urged jet skiers to follow the Marine Code.

Local authority bosses said there had been a rise in the water machines due to an increase in staycations amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

An ACC said: “Following reports over the weekend concerning a group of jet skis getting too close to nesting birds on the cliffs at South Stack, Holyhead, Anglesey County Council has once again reminded users to follow the Anglesey Marine Code.

“This code requests jet ski, RIB and powerboat users to respect wildlife and keep a proper distance from sensitive wildlife areas.

“There are several important nesting bird colonies on Anglesey together with seals, dolphins and porpoises regularly seen around the coastline.”

It said the county council operates a powerboat and jet ski registration system and larger identification stickers have been introduced this year.

“Seasonal slipway wardens are present at busy launching sites around the Island and the Marine Code is discussed when registration takes place,” the statement added.

“There has been a large increase in jet ski numbers due to staycation and it is important that users understand and respect the sea and the importance of not disturbing wildlife.

“We are working closely with jet ski groups such as PWC Gwynedd/ Anglesey but it is extremely difficult to police and enforce irresponsible behaviour everywhere. The public is welcome to report any such irresponsible behaviour by email to: MorwrolMaritime@ ynysmon.gov.uk”

Following the incident, RSPB Cymru have also asked those who spot dangerous behaviour to report to your wildlife crime officer on 101.