Encouraging Vessel Users, Boaters, Tourists, and Citizens to Promote Whale Protection Through Responsible Behavior
Photo: Screenshot/Facebook/Institute of Marine Biology
The Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development, and Northern Development (MERS) has announced that it is urging vessel users, sailors, tourists, and all citizens to help protect the whale spotted in the Bay of Kotor.
“This is an extremely rare and significant natural occurrence in Montenegro’s waters,” stated MERS, led by Damjan Ćulafić.
Accordingly, MERS appeals to citizens to:
Avoid approaching the whale and refrain from disturbing the animal with any actions or activities;
Reduce vessel speed in the area where the whale was observed and be mindful of the animal’s possible movements beneath the surface;
Not use underwater devices that could disturb or confuse the whale;
Immediately report any sighting of a whale or any suspicion of an injured animal to the relevant authorities (Maritime Safety and Port Management Authority, Institute of Marine Biology, MERS).
“Montenegro is a signatory to ACCOBAMS (Agreement on the Conservation of Cetaceans in the Black Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Contiguous Atlantic Area), which requires member states to take steps to protect whales, dolphins, and other marine mammals, including reducing the negative effects of maritime traffic, noise, and pollution. In this regard, all citizens and sea users play a crucial role in fulfilling these international obligations at a local level,” MERS emphasized.
The ministry highlighted that the whale is a strictly protected species, and any actions that may disturb, injure, or endanger it violate legal regulations concerning nature protection.
“We appreciate citizens’ cooperation and understanding, and we urge everyone to contribute to the preservation of this unique marine visitor, for the pride and welfare of Montenegro’s natural heritage,” MERS stated.
The Institute of Marine Biology reported yesterday that a whale had been seen in Herceg Novi Bay.
Mirko Đurović, the director of the Institute of Marine Biology, confirmed today on the “Colors of Morning” program on Television Vijesti that a whale was indeed seen in the Bay of Kotor.
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