Lorraine Williamson
The Spanish parliament has urged the government to establish protections for the sea area north of Menorca. This is a crucial breeding ground for sperm whales in the western Mediterranean.
The proposal, which has garnered wide political backing, aims to shield these endangered animals from potential threats, particularly ship collisions.
This call for conservation is laid out in a non-legislative proposal approved by the Joint Committee on the Island Territory, including Congress and the Senate. The proposal, presented by the Socialist PSOE party, was supported by nearly all political groups except Vox.
The discovery of the breeding area
Marine research group Tursiops first identified this breeding area, highlighting its significance for sperm whale populations in the Mediterranean. The group, which studies cetaceans and their threats in the Balearic Islands, recently partnered with 14 other organisations to urge the Ministry for Ecological Transition to safeguard 30% of Spain’s Mediterranean waters by 2030.
Endangered species status and conservation needs
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies sperm whales in the Mediterranean as endangered. Given their vulnerable status, conservation measures are seen as vital not only for the sperm whale population but also for the broader marine ecosystem.
Ship collisions pose major threat
Tursiops reports that the primary threat to sperm whales in the region is collisions with ships. As the species frequently rests at the water’s surface, these whales, especially calves, are at significant risk. The protection of breeding grounds near Menorca would help safeguard this population. Moreover, it is crucial for the species’ survival in the region.
Why the Menorca area matters
The area north of Menorca is vital for the sperm whale population, with females and sub-adults, as well as calves, frequently observed. This marks the location as a key nursery for the species. Protecting it would not only benefit the sperm whale but also support broader conservation efforts aimed at preserving Mediterranean marine life.
Political debate and concerns from Vox
While the proposal has received broad support, not all politicians are on board. Vox MP Jorge Campos Asensi voiced concerns about the potential economic impact of restricting shipping traffic in the area. He warned that such measures could lead to higher transport costs for residents of the Balearic Islands, affecting local communities.
Long term survival
As the proposal moves forward, it highlights the ongoing tension between conservation efforts and economic concerns. However, with the sperm whale’s slow reproductive rate – a female produces only one calf every five years – protecting these breeding grounds is seen as an essential step in ensuring the long-term survival of the species in the Mediterranean.