Yesterday was World Whale Sharks day and, perhaps typically, we are a day late sharing the celebration. Wetpixel has been running trips to the amazing aggregation of whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) that occurs North of Isla Mujeres, Mexico for the pat 9 or so years, with the obvious hiatus of this year.
Being in the water, surrounded by hundreds of these huge gentle creatures is awe inspiring. Witnessing an event wherein these giants gather in such numbers is an amazing privilege.
The aggregation provides almost unlimited photographic opportunities and gives the opportunity to experiments with creative techniques. If it doesn't work, you are likely to get another opportunity shortly!
Since becoming a popular tourism activity, there have been numerous attempts by the Mexican Federal Government to regulate the way visitors and boat interact with the sharks. There is a checkered history of regulations and enforcement. While some of the requirements can seem somewhat onerous, they are aimed at trying to ensure that this sharks tourism is sustainable.
The other side of the activity is that it provides a significant income stream for local people, not only in terms of the boat crews, but accommodation, travel and all the other ancillaries associated with tourism. Our local operator summed up the sharks' importance to the local community by pointing out that thanks to income derived from shark tourism, they could build their houses from bricks and concrete as opposed to timber. This means that these buildings tend to better survive the huricanes that occur in the Caribbean.
In addition, the sharks are viewed as a resource that provides an income and hence needs to be protected and nurtured. The alternative use of this resource would involve fishing, which would potentially devastate the population. Research is somewhat scarce, but little is known about where these sharks go once they leave the Mexican coast. It is likely that they travel pretty large distances so fishing would impact on global populations.
The COVID-19 pandemic has limited travel and will have impacted on the livelihoods of the people of Isla Mujeres. On World Whale Sharks day, please consider planning a trip to see whale sharks in the near future. By doing so, you will help ensure that these amazing creatures are protected and conserved for future generations, as well as enjoy an unforgettable experience.
