The sea kayak offers a fantastic platform from which to see sea birds and seals, and even whales and dolphins in their natural environment. To experience the 
nature of the sea, at such close quarters is an amazing privilege, but like all privileges it carries a responsibility. In our enthusiasm to see wildlife, we can accidentally cause disturbance without realising it. A good way to minimise our impact on the sea is to learn more about it. For instance, a knowledge of the breeding seasons of birds and seals will help us to avoid getting too close when they are most sensitive to our presence. This guidance is aimed at providing some of that knowledge.
A good principle is that if the wildlife appears to be agitated, then you are to close.
Seacliffs
Cliff nesting sea birds such as guillemots, razorbills and
kittiwakes are most vulnerable when the adults are with their eggs and young chicks. If they are suddenly scared off the ledges they may lose their young, which may fall or be taken by predators. The vulnerable time is mid May to early July. Move by quietly and steadily so as not to panic the birds. Puffins nest in burrows along the tops of cliffs. Walking over a burrow can crush the nest, or cause the adult to desert its young, so try to be aware of their presence.
Shingle shores
Terns, ringed plovers and oyster catchers all nest on shingle beaches. Care should be taken not to disturb nesting birds on these sites between early May and early July. The eggs and chicks are very well camouflaged against the shingle and are easily trodden underfoot.
Sand dunes
Take care during stops not to damage vegetation, which is important for stabilising dunes and helping them grow. Avoid open fires, which damage the dry vegetation.
Seal colonies
Avoid beaches which small pups on them, as a sudden disturbance can lead to pups being squashed in the panic, or separated from their parents who may be unable to find them afterwards. Never feed seals.
Open sea.
In summer, you may encounter large rafts of duck chicks accompanied by adult birds. Try to avoid splitting up these rafts as the chicks are vulnerable to predators if they become separated. In late summer they moult and are at their weakest and most vulnerable.
Kayaking in Context.
The impact that sea kayakers have on the sea has to be seen in
context. The disturbance we cause is minimal, but we should not be complacent. We should all strive to learn more about the sea, and develop skills and senses that ensure the natural heritage of the sea does not suffer from our visits. The bird breeding season and the best kayaking weather usually coincide, so it is important that we are aware of the needs of wildlife.
