WildView™

February 18, 2017

Whales and Dolphins of Tanzania

- as seen by -

Sarah Markes

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I probably shouldn’t confess this, but until recently, I had no idea how many species of whales and dolphins were found in Tanzania. It is small consolation to discover I am not alone in this lack of knowledge.

Research to produce illustrations for this poster revealed confirmed sightings of 19 cetaceans – including three first recorded by the Wildlife Conservation Society – and the high probability of six other species based on regional records. All this highlights just how much remains unknown about many of these marvelous animals, including their behavior, population numbers, preferred habitat, diet, and, most crucially, threats.

Science underpins all of WCS’s work and provides the basis for guiding conservation. Communicating the findings of research is therefore a key component of protecting species and their habitats. Through creating posters like this (above), we aim to raise awareness of Tanzania’s amazing biodiversity and inspire people to get involved in its protection.

Editor’s Note: Today is World Whale Day raising awareness of the need to conserve these giants of the ocean.

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