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New boating scheme to protect Cardigan bottlenoses

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Martin Aaron Martin Aaron | 10:33 UK time, Tuesday, 10 August 2010

As one of the very few UK locations with significant numbers of bottlenose dolphins, there's a new scheme coming for Cardigan Bay to ensure that healthy population continues.

bottlenose_dolphin.jpg

A recreational boating plan is being investigated to ensure the marine mammals are not disturbed by fast-moving seacraft. With around 130 bottlenoses in the waters between Cardigan and the Dyfi Estuary, it is hoped that the code of conduct and new speed restrictions will maintain what is Europe's largest bottlenose populations.

Another element of the plan calls for kayakers and coasteerers to avoid sea caves during the seal pupping season.

Talking to the , Ben Sampson of Ceredigion council's conservation team said, "Almost everyone I talk to at sea cares deeply about the marine environment and the wonderful wildlife we have in the seas. There is sometimes a lack of awareness of what to do when people encounter dolphins amd other wildlife at sea, but there is a strong desire to do the right thing.

"The code of conduct is all about providing that information, ensuring that generations to come can enjoy these spectacular animals."

Sampson talked about the public supposition that dolphins like boats. Faster boats make more noise, which they may find disturbing. "Dolphins may choose to approach a boat, but it must be their choice - never try to approach or follow a dolphin."

There is now an eight-knot speed zone from Cardigan Island to Cribach Bay and the existing speed zone has been extended from New Quay to Llangrannog. Also, sea caves are out of bounds from August to October.

New information panels are up at all launch sites in Ceredigion.

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