Jet skiers accused of ‘causing havoc’ off Puffin Island told to respect wildlife

Jet skiers accused of “causing havoc” near an uninhabited island off Anglesey have been told they need to show respect to wildlife.

It follows reports of jet ski users carelessly ploughing through seabirds off Puffin Island, which were shared on social media yesterday afternoon.

Ros Green shared a video of their actions on Twitter with the message: “Jet ski drivers causing havoc! This bunch ploughed through rafts of seabirds off Puffin Island, Anglesey – which is a Special Protection Area.

“There was at least one dead adult guillemot in the water afterwards.”

Jet ski drivers causing havoc! This bunch ploughed through rafts of seabirds off Puffin Island, Anglesey – which is a Special Protection Area. There was at least one dead adult guillemot in the water afterwards. ⁦@NatResWales⁩ ⁦@WalesNatural⁩ ⁦@IoloWilliams2⁩ pic.twitter.com/jKjViMrGh2

— Ros Green (@r_green24) May 8, 2022

North Wales Police’s rural crime team has also issued a statement this morning cautioning jet ski users over their behaviour.

The team said: “We have received reports of inappropriate recreational watercraft activity near to Ynys Seiriol/ Puffin Island, a sensitive wildlife habitat.

“If you are enjoying the coastlines of Wales you must respect the marine code and our wildlife.

“Whilst we welcome visitors to North Wales, activities on the coastline may cause disturbance to habitats and wildlife including; collision, noise disturbance visual disturbance.”

The force has issued the following advice for people enjoying the coastline:

• Keep your distance – Keep a safe distance (at least 100m) from the cliffs, rafting seabirds and marine mammals, allowing space for animals to move away from you.
• No-wake speed: Motorised vessels and personal watercraft should travel at a no-wake speed within 300m of the cliffs or shore.
• Avoid enclosed spaces: All motorised and non-motorised vessels should avoid entering caves and travelling through archways where breeding seabirds or resting seals are present.
• Be aware: If an animal’s behaviour changes in response to your presence, move away quickly and quietly.