When Tragedy Sparks Action: A Humpback Whale Stranding in Eleuthera
In February 2025, our commitment to marine mammal conservation in The Bahamas was put to the test. On February 8th, BMMRO was alerted about a stranded humpback whale in Eleuthera—a heartbreaking event that quickly mobilized experts and community heroes alike. The massive creature had become trapped inside a reef and was heavily scavenged by sharks, underscoring the urgent need for rapid response.
Video provided by Casuarina McKinney-Lambert, Cape Eleuthera Institute.
Coordinated Response: From Drone Imagery to On-Site Recovery
Thanks to the quick actions of Patrick Sturgeon, who reported the stranding, and Casuarina McKinney-Lambert, who captured vital drone footage, the rescue effort was swiftly underway. The Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI), led by Dr. Eric Schneider, joined forces to collect genetic samples and crucial stranding data. In a particularly heart-wrenching twist, two days later the stranded whale expelled a fetus that washed up on shore.
Under the expert guidance of Dr. Ruth Ewing (NOAA) and Dr. Claridge (BMMRO), CEI’s dedicated team conducted a necropsy and gathered essential samples—all while the grieving community witnessed this profound loss.
Community Vigilance: Tracking Manatee Sightings Across The Bahamas
Even as scientists worked to piece together the story behind the humpback whale stranding, another aspect of marine mammal conservation in The Bahamas emerged. BMMRO has recently secured new manatee signs to raise awareness about vessel speed in high manatee use areas. This initiative comes at a critical time when public sightings have increased across Eleuthera, Long Island, Abaco, and Nassau. A notable sighting in Nassau featured ‘Calypso’—one of Gina’s calves, born in Spanish Wells in 2018. These sightings, often in zones with heavy vessel traffic, highlight the continuous threat manatees face from boat collisions and underscore the need for public vigilance.
How You Can Support Marine Mammal Conservation in The Bahamas
The challenges faced by our marine life are immense, but together we can make a difference. From rapid response during emergencies to everyday efforts that ensure safer habitats for manatees, every action contributes to the broader goal of conserving marine mammals in The Bahamas.
- Volunteer: Join local conservation efforts and learn how you can help during critical response times.
- Educate: Spread awareness about safe vessel practices to protect our vulnerable manatees.
- Donate: Support organizations like BMMRO and CEI that work tirelessly to safeguard marine life.
Recent manatee sightings in areas like Great Guana (Abaco), Harbour Island, Cape Santa Maria (Long Island), and Spanish Wells (Eleuthera) remind us that every effort counts in protecting these gentle giants.
Written by: Charlotte Dunn | Bahamas Marine Mammal Rescue Organization | cdunn@bahamaswhales.org
