Jet ski riders have been reported to police over claims they are repeatedly revving their engines near a colony of seals, scaring them off rocks.

The animals at Pegwell Bay, a country park which stretches between Ramsgate and Sandwich, are in the middle of pupping season.

Wildlife experts warn the riders’ actions could scare mothers into abandoning their babies, or cause the seals injury.

During pupping season females give birth and raise young at the shallow inlet situated in the English Channel, astride the estuary of the River Stour north of Sandwich Bay

Kent Wildlife Trust’s protected area warden, Nina Jones, describes the jet ski riders’ actions as “anti-social behaviour”, while creating potential dangers for young seals.

“This is not just anti-social behaviour - the actions of the jet ski riders have a significant impact on the welfare of the seals, who are in the process of giving birth and raising their pups,” she said.

“The seals rest on the sandbanks at Pegwell Bay but continued disturbance may result in their mothers seeking refuge in the water, preventing them from feeding their pups or potentially abandoning them altogether.

“It’s essential that we give space and share the shore with these protected animals.”

Ms Jones says seals can be disturbed easily, and what may appear to be normal behaviour, such as getting in and out of the sea, can have a “significant impact” on the marine mammal, causing them to struggle to put on weight or feed their pups.

“Repeated disturbance may result in injury from stampeding, they may gash their bellies on sharp rocks, tear their skin on sand or rip out their claws,” she added.

Ms Jones also warns paddlers not to approach the animals or try to take selfies with them.

“One of our Wilder Kent 2030 strategy goals is to engage with more people to do more for nature so we can protect 30% of Kent’s land and sea and by working with tour operators, the paddle board community and those enjoying our coastline for recreation we are all helping nature in our county thrive,” she added.

“In addition to protecting seals, people visiting the coastline are asked to think carefully about how their presence impacts nature.

“Sites like Sandwich and Pegwell Bay are a haven for migratory birds who often nest on the ground. This means they are vulnerable to disturbance, particularly from dogs.

“Those walking dogs in the area are asked to keep their pet on a lead at all times to protect these precious habitats.”