Futurismo Biologists TeamJanuary of 2023 was, in some ways, an atypical month regarding whale watching. Nonetheless, this unusualness was also responsible for creating unforgettable experiences for everyone that joined us!
With a surprising total of 7 different species sighted this month, one can certainly say that this was one of the most complete yearly starts one can hope for.
The same pod of orcas that stole the show from last year’s January decided to show up again. Not once, but twice this time! Furthermore, a set of stellar sightings was made possible thanks to the appearance of the two largest animal species to have ever set foot (or fin) on this planet. That’s right! One blue whale and a few absolutely massive fin whales were sighted amidst our adventures!
Alongside the sightings of pilot whales, as well as of 3 of our never disappointing resident species, every person who decided to visit us during this winter season was sure to create unforgettable memories in our, and the animals’ company.
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Close at hand with these wonderful sightings, however, comes a reality that must also be addressed. Species such as blue and fin whales, despite their size, are rather poorly studied and understood.
However, we typically expect them to be sighted during the Spring months, a period over which they are believed to cross the archipelago midway through their northward migration.
Hence, witnessing these animals in January, more than once, clearly suggests that something is leading these large whales to show up earlier. Although climate change is a fact, its repercussions on the behaviour of marine mammals are yet to be fully unveiled. Nonetheless, sightings such as these, besides wonderful and unexpected, are also extremely important in order to help fill the aforementioned gaps in knowledge! Hopefully, February brings along yet another set of mysteries and surprises!
Futurismo Biologists Team
Sandrina Rodrigues
