Operation Seabird Plymouth
Operation Seabird flies into Plymouth to raise awareness around maritime and wildlife disturbance crime
Plymouth was the beautiful setting for the latest Operation Seabird initiative which aims to educate the public about wildlife disturbance caused by recreational activities.
Earlier this month members of the Plymouth City Centre and Waterfront Neighbourhood Policing Team, with the support of Cattewater Harbour Commissioners, hosted the important initiative at the quayside.
Operation Seabird is a national campaign which aims to engage the public about the sensitivities of the coastline, and how simple changes in their behaviour near or in the water could reduce pressure on our unique wildlife.
Neighbourhood Beat Manager PC Jessie Rapson-Blackler explained: “We were joined by the National Marine Aquarium, Devon Wildlife Trust, Plymouth Sound National Marine Park and Sharks Trust, as well as the Ministry of Defence who came alongside in their vessel. We are all working together to raise awareness of our wonderful marine wildlife and how to share our home with them to minimise disruption and harm to them.
“We explained the role of a Wildlife Crime Officer to visitors on the day and the types of wildlife crimes that are often committed - often unknowingly. The event was well attended and we received good feedback from partner agencies – we hope to host another Plymouth Operation Seabird event in the summer with some additional exhibitors.”
Devon and Cornwall have some beautiful coastal areas and police are determined to make sure everyone can enjoy the water without nuisance behaviour which could harm wildlife.
Targeted days of action take place at coastal areas and other stretches of water around the year to focus on the specific concerns regarding wildlife for that area. UK police forces have embraced this operation, working with the Marine Maritime Organisation (MMO) and the RSPCA in partnership with local nature partnerships and other conservation organisations.
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Pic caption: PC Jessie Rapson-Blackler at the event in Plymouth
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