Environment Society Of Oman Renews Commitment To Protecting The Arabian Sea Humpback Whale

In recognition of World Whale Day on 20th February, the Environment Society of Oman (ESO) is raising awareness about one of Oman’s most famous cetaceans, the Arabian Sea humpback whale. ESO will be initiating two projects in 2022, both designed to support the conservation of the Arabian Sea humpback whale.  The first project aims to implement a Conservation Management Plan, working with local authorities to implement alternative solutions to harmful marine practices that threaten the whales’ survival. Complementing the conservation plan, ESO will also be launching a 2-year capacity building programme designed to develop the next generation of cetacean researchers and activists.

The Arabian Sea humpback whale is one of one of 20 species of marine mammals found in Oman’s waters. Classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List of threatened species in 2008, it is estimated to be the smallest and potentially most vulnerable whale population in the world, numbering fewer than 100 individuals. Research supported by ESO has also proven Oman’s humpback whales to be the only known population in the world not to migrate between high and low latitudes, staying instead to breed and feed in the waters surrounding Oman.

Since its inception in 2004, ESO has focused on developing a better understanding of the distribution and ecology of the different whales found in Oman’s waters. Among its achievements last year, the country’s only non-profit organization focusing on environmental preservation launched the Marine Mammal Atlas of Oman, a publication that is the culmination of 20 years of scientific research and serves as an important reference for studies on environmental diversity, while also raising awareness on the species.  

Whilst research and monitoring for the Arabian Sea humpback whale will continue, ESO’s long history of research means that there is now sufficient scientific information to inform meaningful conservation actions.  As a result, the focus of ESO’s work going forward will shift to deliver more advocacy and mitigation options to help protect these endangered whales.  As an non-profit organization, ESO continues to rely on the generous support of sponsors and members to deliver this work. For more information on how to support, make a donation, or to find out other ways to get involved, visit eso.org.om.