HOLIDAYMAKERS have been warned to stay away from dolphins after a new mum and her calf were surrounded by tourists at a popular seaside beauty spot.

Officials said visitors got too close to the animals at New Quay harbour in Cardigan Bay, west , risking serious injury.

Harlech Beach and Cardigan Bay with mountains in the background under a blue sky.Harlech Beach in Cardigan Bay, west Wales Credit: Getty Two bottlenose dolphins swimming in Cardigan Bay.Bottlenose Dolphins swimming in Cardigan Bay Credit: Alamy

The area is home to one of Britain’s biggest populations of bottlenose dolphins, which regularly visit the harbour and nearby coastline.

Now the Ceredigion Harbour Authority has issued an alert to paddleboarders, kayakers, swimmers and other water users, urging them to keep their distance.

Experts warned that female dolphins protecting young calves can become aggressive if they feel threatened.

Melanie Heath, Cardigan Bay marine protected area officer, said: “We are incredibly fortunate to have dolphins regularly visiting and living in Ceredigion and seeing them is often a highlight for those enjoying our coastline.

“While we understand the excitement that comes with such encounters, this is a dangerous situation.

“Dolphins are big powerful animals, up to four metres long, and apex predators.

“A female with a calf is particularly vulnerable to disturbance and may become aggressive to protect her calf.

“There have been incidents around the UK of bottlenose dolphins attacking humans who are in too close proximity by ramming, tail thrashing or trying to hold them under the water.

“To keep both people and the dolphins safe, we need everyone to give them space and keep at least 100 metres, the length of a pitch, away.”

Dolphins are protected under wildlife legislation, and it is an offence to deliberately disturb them.

She added: “Mother dolphins with young calves can be particularly vulnerable to disturbance.

“We are asking paddleboarders, kayakers and swimmers not to approach, follow or attempt to interact with dolphins.

“Move away if you are in the water, and do not enter the water from the beach to get a closer view.”

The warning comes after reports that visitors had crowded around the mother and calf in the harbour,.

It prompted fears both people and the animals could be put at risk.