CONCERNS have been raised that anyone flying drones at Malham Cove could be disturbing nesting peregrine falcons - and running the risk of large fine.

A reminder has been issued that the flying of drones at the cove is not permitted, without permission.

There has been several sightings of people flying drones at the cove in recent weeks, with one person saying they received an aggressive response when challenging one flyer.

North Yorkshire Police and the RSPB have said anyone who believes that the protected birds of prey are being disturbed should report it and incidents will be investigated by its wildlife officers.

Kirkby Malham Parish Council, which owns both Malham Cove and Gordale Scar, says anyone wanting to fly a drone from its land needs to first apply for permission, but does not permit it during the nesting of the peregrines.

Peregrines, the fastest animal on the planet, have been nesting at the cove for several years. A public viewing point, operated by the RSPB and the national park is normally on site at the foot of the cove from around Easter to July, but not since 2019. It was cancelled again this year by the RSPB because of ‘uncertainty’ over the coronavirus pandemic.

The National Trust, which owns the surrounding Malham Cove fields, does not allow the flying of drones from its land, while the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, which has just published updated policy, says anyone flying a drone needs authorisation from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and permission of the landowner.

Councillor Chris Wildman, chair of Kirkby Malham Parish Council, said permission had at times been given for the flying of drones from the cove, but not when peregrines were nesting.

A spokesperson for the RSPB said: “Malham’s peregrine falcons are a great source of joy to many people and the best way to get closer views without disturbing these birds is to view them through binoculars, a telescope or using the zoom on a camera.

“As a Schedule One species, peregrines and their young are fully protected by law under The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

“Anyone flying a drone near an active peregrine nest, regardless of whether they have permission of the landowner, runs the risk of committing a criminal act if they disturb the birds.

“If anyone is concerned that a wildlife offence might be being committed, they should report this to the police by calling 101 and asking for the Wildlife Crime Officer."

The RSPB adds: “Anyone wishing to experience and learn more about these wonderful birds can also join one of our guided walks around Malham. Details on how to book will shortly be shared on our social media pages (@malhamperegrine on Twitter, and Malham Peregrine Project Facebook page.”

A spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police confirmed: “Any concerns in relation to the disturbance of wildlife should be reported to police. Our specially trained wildlife officers can then look into them.”

Any concerns about the disturbance of wildlife should be reported on the non-emergency 101 number, or online at https://www.northyorkshire.police.uk/