BABY dolphins separated from their pod have finally found their way back out into the open sea.

The two juvenile common dolphins were spotted in the water off Teignmouth and attracted boatloads of dolphin watchers concerned for their safety.

The mammals had been seen diving and jumping off the resort, but there were fears the dolphins may die after being separated from the family pod.

Now animal conservationist Lindi Hingley, of Brixham Seawatch, said the behaviour demonstrated by one of the dolphins was a clear indication it was severely distressed.

And she has warned that members of the public who were trying to swim with the dolphins and feed them may have added to its stress.

"It's abnormal for a juvenile common dolphin to be on its own," she said.

"It is either ill or has lost or been driven away from its pod. It hasn't been spotted for a few days and I am hoping it has gone.

"The problem is that when people approach, it is being distracted and staying in the area, but it will not survive unless it's left alone and allowed to return to the open sea where its only hope is to join another pod."

Dolphins are protected by the Countryside and Wildlife Act and anyone found guilty of harassing or harming them could face fines of up to £5,000 and a prison sentence.

By law single boats are not allowed within 100metres and groups of three boats or more within one kilometre.

Dolphin watchers should cut their engines and give the mammals plenty of space, Ms Hingley said.

Meanwhile pods of dolphins have been spotted off Dartmouth and off Falmouth.

It is hoped the two Teignmouth dolphins have now rejoined their pod.

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