A video of jetskiers feared to be 'spooking' sleeping seals as they watched them next to rocks has prompted a warning from animal welfare campaigners.

Footage released by the Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust shows three jetskiers approaching the seals resting on rocks.

Although the trio still maintain a relative distance from the rocks, the previously asleep seals are seen waking up – with some even fleeing along the rock to the safety of the sea off north Cornwall.

Sue Sayer, 60, the founder and director of trust, said the people in the video, filmed this week, likely had no ill-intentions.

But she added that they were still causing unintended harm to the animals – and more awareness was needed in regard to seal safety, she said.

Video: Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust/SWNS

“We’re not pointing fingers at others – we’re asking people to question themselves, and if they’re behaving correctly or not,” she said.

Later on in the video, which is a compilation of clips, a group of kayakers can also be seen paddling past seals on rocks. Again, a couple of them jump into the water as the kayakers pass, even though the group do not attempt to approach the animals.

Sue explained that if the seals do not get an appropriate amount of sleep, they do not get the opportunity to digest their food, thus putting them at risk.

A man in a wetsuit walks on rocks close to seals Picture: Sue Sayer/SWNS

A man in a wetsuit walks on rocks close to seals Picture: Sue Sayer/SWNS

“They are meant to digest in their sleep, but instead they are constantly awake and alert. Every calorie counts for their survival,” she added.

She said approaching the seals and making them feel threatened can lead to them jumping into the sea, which can be potentially life-threatening from high-up rocks.

“Cornwall’s coastline is like a playground site in the summer. There’s nothing wrong with this but, the constant activity and business brings on extra responsibilities,” said Sue.