Warning after boats filmed getting 'too close' to orcas in Moray Firth

A warning has been issued after footage was shared of boats getting “too close” to orcas after they were spotted in the Moray Firth.

Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC) say they were delighted to see orcas along the Moray coast on Friday, with images and videos shared widely on social media.

The charity believes the animals may have been hunting for seals as they travelled east.

However, conservationists were “disappointed” that footage emerged showing boats getting too close, staying too long, and not allowing the orcas to travel freely back out to open water.

They say it is a criminal offence to disturb whales and dolphins.

Alison Rose, manager of the Scottish Dolphin Centre, which WDC runs, said: “Staff and volunteers based at the Scottish Dolphin Centre were delighted to see the orca along the Moray coast on Friday evening.

“Many people were thrilled to watch this amazing group of individuals who may well have been hunting for seals as they travelled east.

“However, we were disappointed to see footage circulating online of boats getting too close to the orca, staying too long, and not allowing them to travel freely back out to open water.

“This footage has been shared with Police Scotland, as it is a criminal offence to disturb whales and dolphins.

“We urge all water users to give all marine animals space, and to follow the Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code by staying 100 meters away, not over staying your welcome – 15 minutes is enough and don’t chase.”