Preventive Measures Activated
Whales have arrived off the coast of Los Cabos weeks earlier than expected, surprising residents and tourists who shared videos of the sightings across social media.
According to Luis Ramón Cárdenas, FONMAR Los Cabos coordinator, the early migration is due to unusually cold Pacific currents pushing the animals south sooner than usual.
“We’ve already noticed that whale season has come early,” Cárdenas said. “One whale even became entangled in buoys on Sunday. Our RABEN rescue team successfully freed it. Both RABEN and CONANP have confirmed that whales arrived earlier this year because of the cold ocean currents.”
The rescued whale was found in Cabo San Lucas Bay. Cárdenas praised the coordination among specialized rescue teams that ensured the animal’s safe release.
Whale-watching season traditionally begins in mid-December, when whales migrate south to breed and nurse their young. This year, however, the animals appeared nearly two months ahead of schedule, prompting concern among authorities.
In response, FONMAR and the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP) have implemented preventive measures and issued guidelines for sport fishing and nautical tourism operators.
Cárdenas reminded boaters that whale-watching is not yet officially authorized. He urged vessels to keep their distance until the season formally opens on December 15, when new training and updated regulations for guides will take effect.
He added that whales are expected to enter the bay more frequently and come closer to shore this year, leading to increased surveillance to prevent incidents that could endanger both whales and crews.
Cárdenas also thanked sport fishing organizers, including those of the Bulnes Tournament, for cooperating by reducing speeds during competitions to help protect the migrating whales.
