‘Observe, don’t disturb’ our wildlife say police

In short: 'Observe, don’t disturb’ is the message to visitors who go to the Suffolk coast this summer to enjoy the county’s wildlife.  

The details: Suffolk Constabulary has signed up to the national initiative Operation Seabird, led by the RSPCA, to raise awareness of the importance of protecting and preserving our rich wildlife habitats and tackling disturbances to seals, sea birds, and nesting birds.

Officers will be out and about meeting visitors in specific locations across the county, including the Stour and Orwell Estuaries, Covehithe, Orford Ness and Hollesley Marshes – between the beginning of June and the end of August.

Operation Seabird will see Suffolk Constabulary officers targeting coastal areas where people and animals interact, such as sites with nesting seabirds. Previous incidents along the coastline nationally have included dogs off leads disturbing nesting birds or seals, wild campers lighting fires on the beach dunes and causing significant damage to the fauna, quad bikes or 4x4 vehicles riding over nesting areas, and canoeists getting too close to seals.

Sgt Brian Calver of the Suffolk Rural and Wildlife Team said: "We have a beautiful coastline in Suffolk with a rich and varied wildlife habitat and bearing in mind the limitations we have had to adhere to over the past year it is only natural we want to get out and about to explore and learn about this wildlife on our doorstep.

"However, we do need to be wary of the impact our fascination with such wildlife can have. We all have to assume this responsibility and enjoyment of the wildlife should be done at a safe and sensible distance without disturbing the animals," added Sgt Calver.   Suffolk Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore said: "I really welcome the Constabulary’s support for  Operation Seabird. Suffolk has outstanding and very rich biodiversity and is a major attraction for the county’s visitors and day-trippers – it is one of Suffolk’s 'Jewels in our crown.'” 

"I would ask people to be particularly mindful of the need to do everything possible to look after this heritage so please respect the animals’ habitats, keep your distance and leave them well alone," added Commissioner Passmore.

Operation Seabird was launched in 2020 by North Yorkshire and Humberside Police along with the RSPCA and is supported by local authorities, RNLI and wildlife trusts.