Legal warning after increase in seahorse disturbance

Warmer weather is leading to an increase in “vulnerable and fragile” seahorses being disturbed, conservationists have said.

Seahorses are legally protected in the UK and anyone intending to seek them out or photograph them must have a licence.

The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) said it was stepping up efforts to inform people of the law after an increase in reported incidents, both accidental and deliberate.

Educational activities are being focused around Poole Harbour and Studland Bay in Dorset and Torbay in Devon, where some of the most significant populations are found.

A MMO spokesperson said: “We have seen an increase in incidents where people have unintentionally encountered seahorses whilst in the water, or whilst crabbing.

“We’ve also seen people diving or snorkelling with the likely specific intention to film or photograph seahorses.

“This sort of intentional activity is likely to disturb seahorses, would potentially constitute an offence and would require a wildlife licence.”