For the second consecutive year, One Ocean Foundation supported the Ecology and Biology of Cetaceans course organized by the Menkab Association. The course, aimed at the identification and protection of cetaceans in the Pelagos Sanctuary, saw the participation of seven university students, from both undergraduate and graduate programs.

The course, held at the Varazze Naval League Headquarters, offered a combination of both theoretical and practical sessions. Topics covered in the lectures included:

• Introduction to the Pelagos Sanctuary and the species present

• Biology and ecology of the regular cetaceans of the Sanctuary

• Acoustics and cetacean monitoring

• "Visitor" species of the Sanctuary

• Proper data collection methodologies

Despite adverse weather conditions, with rough seas and wind, participants managed to spot three Cuvier's beaked whales, one of the eight regular species of the Pelagos Sanctuary. This practical data collection experience allowed the students to directly apply the knowledge acquired during the lectures.

The course was made possible thanks to the support of various partners, including the Varazze Naval League and Marina di Varazze, who hosted the course. Other key partners included AMP Isola di Bergeggi, Pelagos, and ACCOBAMS (Agreement on the Conservation of Cetaceans in the Black Sea, Mediterranean Sea, and Contiguous Atlantic Area).

A continuous commitment to cetacean protection

Supporting initiatives like the Ecology and Biology of Cetaceans course is fundamental for the conservation and protection of marine species. For One Ocean Foundation, educating and training students are essential steps to ensuring the wellbeing of the cetaceans of the Pelagos Sanctuary.