Marine sanctuary official warns about drones impact

MONTEREY >> Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Superintendent Paul Michel has issued a warning that the use of unmanned aircraft in the area is on the rise and is potentially harmful to marine life.

In a statement issued Monday, Michel said the use of the aircraft such as drones or model airplanes above the sanctuary has "markedly increased" during the past year, and noted their use above the water is either regulated or not allowed at all in certain areas.

Aircraft flying at low altitude over beaches and the ocean "disturb and frighten" wildlife, Michel said in the statement, especially sensitive animals such as seals, sea otters, seabirds, and shorebirds.

Sudden severe or repeated disturbances can interrupt wildlife feeding and rest patterns, potentially resulting in weight loss, fatigue, sickness and death, according to Michel.

Michel urged all sanctuary users to help protect sanctuary wildlife by following the regulations governing the area and by reporting animal disturbances to the NOAA hotline at 1-800-853-1964.

For more information about sanctuary overflight regulations, visit