By Belize Live News Staff: The Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute Belize has issued an urgent public advisory following a mass stranding of pilot whales in the Drown Caye area, just off the coast of Belize City. The public, especially mariners and tour operators, are being strongly urged to avoid the area immediately.
According to the official release, the stranding involves large, powerful marine mammals, and interaction with the animals—whether by boat or in the water—could pose serious risks to both the whales and the public. The Institute warns that distressed whales may react unpredictably, making the situation dangerous.
The advisory urges the public:
Not to approach the stranded whales either by watercraft or on foot.
To avoid the Drown Caye area entirely to minimize stress to the animals and ensure the safety of responders.
To report sightings or related information to the Clearwater response team at 615-3838.
The Institute’s response team is currently on-site, actively monitoring the pod in coordination with the Belize Fisheries Department and the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation. Efforts are underway to assess the condition of the animals and determine necessary actions to aid their survival.
Jamal Galves, who is leading the Belize response efforts, emphasized the importance of public cooperation. “These animals are under immense stress. The best way the public can help is by staying away and reporting any sightings to the proper authorities,” he stated.
Stranding events such as this are rare in Belize and often signal urgent environmental or biological concerns. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute Belize, known for its work in marine mammal conservation, continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as needed.
For more information or to report a sighting, the public can contact Jamal Galves at jgalves@cmaquarium.org or call 615-3838.
