“Whales are mammals. They breathe air. They’re absolutely astonishing animals.” –Oscar Guzon
In this captivating episode of the “Best of Mazatlan show“, host Mark Glickman engages with Oscar Guzon, the director of the upcoming National Whale Museum and founder of Onca Explorations, the first whale-watching company in Mazatlan and Sinaloa, to explore the wonders and challenges of marine life in Mazatlan, Mexico. Oscar shares his remarkable journey from an oceanographer to an ecotourism leader, offering insights into the behavior and conservation of the region’s humpback whales.
Guzon delves into the importance of Mazatlan as a breeding ground for humpback whales, discussing the impact of climate change on migration patterns and breeding behaviors. He highlights the continued research efforts that allow for better understanding and conservation of these magnificent creatures, including photo identification techniques and population monitoring. The episode also teases the future National Whale Museum, its mission, and the educational experiences it aims to provide. Oscar’s passion further extends to the broader call for environmental responsibility and activism within the Mazatlan community.
“More and more babies are being born in Mazatlan every year.”
Nestled along the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Mazatlan emerges not just as a tourist haven but also as a beacon of marine biology and ecotourism, playing a pivotal role in the conservation and understanding of one of the nature’s most magnificent creatures — the humpback whale. As one of the leading breeding grounds for humpback whales along the west coast of Mexico, Mazatlan’s geographical position makes it a sanctuary for these marine mammals. The city marks the onset of tropical waters where humpback whales converge for mating purposes.
“The warmer it gets in Mazatlan, the more whales we have.”
Guzon draws attention to the impact of climate change on this natural phenomenon, pointing out that warm water masses may have pushed the tropics northward, altering migration patterns and behavior. This shift, however, carries a double-edged sword — while it may seem advantageous for whale watchers and researchers to see an increase in whale populations, the potential for heightened threats exists. As Guzon clarifies, “more whales doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re going to be out of danger… probably they will be more at danger.” Over a thousand individual whales have been cataloged through photo identification methods, aiding conservation efforts and population tracking.
Best Months to See Whales in Mazatlan
According to Guzon, “the data is very consistent in telling us that the peak month of abundance is always January, but we always start seeing whales around November and December. December is a beautiful month. January is a great month. February also. But I would say that the drop off is always very drastic in March. So even if it’s very consistent towards December, January and February, by March we have a drop that is very evident. But some years, we can see whales even up to April and May. From November through March, we can see anywhere from 350-500 whales.
“Whale watching should be done with people that have an authorization for doing it.”
The integration of conservation education into whale watching represents a critical shift in the approach toward wildlife tourism and protection. As Guzon explains, “I’ve been dedicating almost 20 years of my life to studying whales… most of my studies have been focused on the ecology of whales.” But it’s his initiative, Onca Explorations, that integrates ecological research with eco-tourism, emphasizing the need to educate as much as to entertain. Guzon’s vision that “whale watching with whale conservation education” underscores the need for such practices to be not merely observation-based but infused with a deep sense of responsibility towards these marine giants. The goal is clear: to connect people with nature while instilling a reverent approach to the environment, subsequently transforming spectators into stewards of the sea.
The impending establishment of Mazatlan’s National Whale Museum under the directorship of Oscar Guzon will be a milestone for both conservation and education. The museum aims to bring visitors up close with cetacean skeletons and immersive sensory experiences that foster a deep appreciation and understanding of marine life. The planned facility inside the Observatorio park will not only display stunning exhibits but also function as an educational hub, propelling Mazatlan forward as a city that cherishes its natural heritage. Guzon’s description of the museum’s intent — to explore the human-whale connection and inspire awe and respect for these incredible creatures — encapsulates the museum’s overarching goal to enlighten and engage.
“We want people to get proud about the great diversity of marine life that we have in Mexico.”
As our exposé on Mazatlan’s marine wonders comes full circle, we are reminded of the city’s intrinsic bond with the humpback whales that grace its proximal waters. The hard work and passion of researchers and ecotourism advocates like Oscar Guzon highlight the potential and necessity of intertwining conservation with enjoyment of natural phenomena. With initiatives like the National Whale Museum on the horizon, Mazatlan is poised to become not just a physical crossroads for migrating humpback whales but a metaphorical one where human interest in marine life meets earnest protective efforts. It seems the future of Mazatlan’s maritime awe and stewardship is as promising as the majestic breaches of its humpback whales under the setting sun.
Listen to the full episode for a deeper dive into the world of whales in Mazatlan with Oscar Guzon, and stay tuned for more enlightening content that captures the essence of this vibrant Mexican coastal city. Don’t miss out on the wealth of knowledge and thrilling discussions on “The Best of Mazatlan” show. (bestofmazatlan.com)
