STUMPY the Dolphin has been spotted off the Purbeck coast - with experts calling for boat users to follow the code of conduct when encountering dolphins at sea.

The bottlenose dolphin, nicknamed Stumpy as he is missing the tip of his dorsal fin, is part of the South West population - the third population of dolphins identified in the UK.

Other populations include the Moray Firth dolphins in Scotland and the Cardigan Bay dolphins in Wales.

Dorset Wildlife Trust’s marine awareness officer, Julie Hatcher said, “The South West population, which ranges from Dorset to Cornwall, often splits into smaller groups of 3 or 4, or slightly larger groups of around 20 animals.

"Although it is not known exactly how many animals are resident in the South West group as a whole, a number of young dolphins have been recorded in recent years, which is encouraging.”

DWT recommends that to help protect these marine giants in their natural habitat, boats must follow the marine code of conduct when near dolphins in the sea.

Dolphins are protected by law from disturbance and injury.

Julie added: “Rules include not driving directly towards them, maintaining a steady course and speed so they can predict your movements and avoid boats if necessary, and not splitting up the group.

"Boat users should also be aware of other vessels around the dolphins and not box them in – move away if there are more than 2 vessels within 1km. Often, dolphins will decide to come over to you, but it must be their choice.”

The organisation would like to hear about your dolphin sightings.

Share videos and pictures taken in Dorset by emailing kimmeridge@dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk or Tweet @dorsetwildlife or go to their Facebook page, DorsetWildlife.

To find out more about the Marine Code of Conduct, go to seawatchfoundation.org.uk/marine-code-of-conduct.