Experts issue warning after dolphin spotted in popular UK seaside resort

The dolphin was spotted off the coast of Lyme Regis (Image: Marine Management Organisation)

A new frequent visitor to the pretty seaside resort of Lyme Regis in Dorset has been cause for excitement among locals and visitors, but experts have issued a warning against getting too close. The bottle-nosed dolphin has been spotted numerous times just off the west Dorset coast, offering visitors a special glimpse of the aquatic creatures in the wild. But marine wildlife bodies and conservation organisations have cautioned locals and tourists alike about the dangers of approaching the famously friendly animals, including the risk of criminal prosecution.

"The arrival of a dolphin in a small coastal community like Lyme Regis can be source of wonder and pride," Jess Churchill-Bisset, head of marine conservation at the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) said. "But it's vital to remember that dolphins are vulnerable and unpredictable wild animals protected by law. We all have a responsibility to respect their space, keep a safe distance, and understand how our actions can unintentionally cause harm or even constitute a criminal offence."

Visitors have been treated to sightings of the dolphin from the Dorset town's coastline (Image: Getty)

"By giving these animals space, observing them from a distance and acting responsibly, we help ensure their health and survival, so they remain a part of our coast now and for generations to come," Ms Churchill-Bisset added.

Alongside whales and porpoises, dolphins are protected by law, and intentionally approaching or recklessly disturbing them could result in an unlimited fine or up to six months in prison.

"Disturbances can be a big problem for wildlife, from seabirds to seals and dolphins," Sarah Hodgson from the Dorset Wildlife Trust added.

"It can affect their natural behaviour, interfering with foraging, disturbing crucial resting time, causing stress and may result in injuries or worse.

"That's why it's so important to follow the Marine and Coastal Wildlife Code, so you can enjoy your time on the water without having a detrimental impact on our precious marine wildlife."

Advice for keeping your distance from dolphins on the UK coast includes keeping at least a 100-metre distance, travelling at speeds no higher than six knots and never encircling or chasing the mammals, or trying to touch, feed or swim with them.

It's not the first time a dolphin has been spotted off the Lyme Regis coast, with one eager visitor joining in with the town's lifeboat crew on a training exercise back in February.

Another washed up on a local beach in the aftermath of a storm last October, with emergency services luckily able to assess it for injuries before releasing it back into the sea.