"Dominica Set To Open World’s First Reserve Centered Around Sperm Whales"

"The tiny island nation of Dominica has announced that it will create a 788-square-kilometer (304-square-mile) reserve to protect endangered sperm whales.

Most of the sperm whales that live off the coast of Dominica are part of the Eastern Caribbean Clan, which currently has a population of fewer than 300 individuals.

Sperm whales in this region are threatened by fishing gear entanglement, pollution, boat strikes, and even tourism.

The new reserve aims to protect whales by restricting activities such as fishing, vessel traffic and tourism, while not entirely banning them."

Elizabeth Claire Alberts reports for Mongabay November 14, 2023.

 

Source: Mongabay, 11/15/2023