Critical Habitat

Few of the areas on which whales and dolphins depend for their day-to day-survival are protected.  Even vulnerable or endangered populations of whales and dolphins continue to face numerous threats in the areas they rely on for finding food and mates and raising their young.  

All too often the sanctuaries and protected areas which are created are inadequate, or not enforced.

WDCS helps identify areas and conditions essential to the survival of whale and dolphin populations. Such areas may be used for feeding, hunting, resting, breeding, and raising young. 

We work with local communities to campaign for these areas to be designated as sanctuaries, or marine protected areas (MPAs), promoting the protection of critical habitats and sometimes entire ecosystems from human impacts.

We then follow up to encourage research, education and the development of conservation management plans, with periodic review. In this way, we can help to ensure that an MPA is functioning to protect whales and dolphins and their ecosystem.

The importance of protecting the habitats critical to the survival of whales and dolphins is at the core of WDCS’s mission and our work around the world.

Visit cetaceanhabitat.org for more information

Cetaceans In The Indian Ocean Cetaceans in the IOS are exposed to a range of threats, including by-catch and the effects of climate change. Whilst no quantification can be made of these threats at this time, they may still be significant for the conservation of populations. 2008-March-27

Creating Sanctuary The importance of protecting the habitats critical to the survival of whales and dolphins is at the core of WDCS’s mission and our work around the world. 2008-February-20