WILLEMSTAD - Hundreds of whales and dolphins, including calves and pregnant animals, were documented during a 21-day scientific expedition in the waters surrounding Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao. Researchers recorded a total of ten different species, according to findings published on the website of Wereld Natuur Fonds Nederland.
The expedition coincided with Curaçao’s announcement of the establishment of a marine reserve, a development researchers describe as a crucial step toward the long-term protection of whales and dolphins in the southern Caribbean.
The research was carried out by the Caribbean Cetacean Society, a partner of WWF, marking the third consecutive year of large-scale fieldwork around the ABC islands. On the very first day, researchers encountered more than 200 dolphins of two different species just a few miles off the coast.
Rare sightings and first confirmations
Large groups of pantropical spotted dolphins were observed near all three islands. Around Bonaire, researchers also documented striped dolphins on two occasions, including an exceptionally large group of more than 300 animals. This marks the first confirmed sighting of striped dolphins in waters surrounding Bonaire.
Sperm whales were observed this year only in coastal waters near Curaçao and Bonaire. Using advanced acoustic monitoring equipment, the research team also detected beaked whales near Aruba.
“These whales usually live in very deep waters and are rarely seen at the surface,” said expedition leader Stacey Mac Donald. “Being able to record them acoustically is something quite special.”
Concerns over underwater noise
While the findings highlight the ecological richness of the region, researchers also expressed concern over increasing disturbances. Underwater recordings near Aruba detected active sonar. Whales and dolphins rely heavily on sound for communication, navigation, and feeding, and excessive noise pollution can significantly disrupt their behavior and survival.
Importance of regional protection
The expedition is part of the Ti Whale An Nou program, the only long-term, systematic study of whales and dolphins in this region. Data collected over three years show that multiple species regularly move between islands, including Curaçao and Bonaire, and even toward the Windward Islands. According to researchers, this makes regional cooperation essential for effective protection.
During the expedition, the Curaçao Minister of Health, Environment and Nature announced the creation of a marine reserve. Mac Donald called the decision a major milestone.
“The presence of calves and pregnant animals shows just how rich these waters are,” she said. “Whales and dolphins play a key role in healthy oceans. Protecting them is essential—not only for biodiversity, but also for the people of the islands.”