Mar del Plata experienced an extraordinary natural show during Wednesday, June 18th, and Thursday, June 19th, with the sighting from the coast of several specimens of Southern Right Whale. The most outstanding moment occurred at Playa Serena, where a large whale performed jumps and movements just a few meters from the shore, to the surprise of residents and tourists.
At the same time, at least two whales were observed in the area of Torreón del Monje, adding to a series of increasingly frequent records in the local maritime front.
## A sign of species recovery
According to specialists from the Group of Biology, Ecology, and Conservation of Marine Mammals at the Institute of Marine and Coastal Research (IIMyC), the presence of these whales is a positive evidence of population recovery, after having been on the brink of extinction due to intensive commercial hunting in the 18th and 19th centuries.
The first sighting of the year was recorded three weeks ago off Cabo Corrientes, and since then, the sightings have become more and more common, coinciding with the beginning of the migration south of this protected species.
## More whale sightings and aerial records at Acantilados
Last week, about 15 specimens were documented in the Acantilados area, distributed over a 250-meter front. “One was 800 meters from the Los Acantilados sign and the other group about 1600 meters from the coast,” explained Pablo Funes, who captured impressive aerial images of the phenomenon.
The period between June and November is ideal for whale watching in the region. By spring, it is estimated that about 1,000 whales will travel the waters between Puerto Madryn and Península Valdés, consolidating this marine corridor as a key attraction for nature tourism.
## Clear rules for safe coexistence
The Southern Right Whale is protected by local ordinance 21,439. Therefore, both the General Pueyrredón Municipality and conservation organizations urge respecting the minimum distance with cetaceans to prevent accidents and preserve animal welfare.
The municipality has developed a joint protocol with the Argentine Naval Prefecture, which establishes clear guidelines for those navigating or practicing water sports in the area. The measures aim to prevent risks for both animals and people.
## A natural privilege that demands responsibility
The increasing presence of whales in Mar del Plata represents a unique opportunity to contemplate nature in its pure state, but it also implies a call to commitment: respecting their space is key to ensuring their preservation and enjoying this marine phenomenon without interference.
*Video: @dronmardelplata*
