The National Commission of Protected Natural Areas (CONANP) has announced the results of the first census conducted in January 2025 in the El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve, where 67 gray whales were counted. Of these, 51 were alone and 8 accompanied by calves. This number indicates a moderate start to the season compared to previous years.
The census was carried out in Laguna Ojo de Liebre and is a fundamental activity to monitor the return of these majestic mammals that migrate from the Arctic to the coasts of Baja California Sur annually. The El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve, located in the municipality of Mulegé, Baja California Sur, covers 2 million 546 thousand 79 hectares and is one of the most extensive protected areas in Mexico.
The sighting season takes place from December to April, promoting both conservation and ecotourism in the region. Although the number of 67 whales sighted in January 2025 is below historical records from previous seasons, according to data collected by Aristegui Noticias, such as in the 2015-2016 season, where 584 whales were observed in the first census.
In subsequent seasons, these numbers have gradually decreased, as in 2016-2017 with 347 whales sighted, and in 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 with only 52 and 55 whales reported respectively. In the 2023-2024 season, 883 whales were counted, while in 2019 it remained at 55 and in 2025 it increased to 67, indicating a slight rebound.
CONANP mentioned that despite the slight decrease compared to past seasons, the El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve remains a crucial point for the gray whale, as it has been considered a natural sanctuary since 1993 by UNESCO. The Commission assured that conservation efforts continue, focusing on responsible observation and sustainable ecotourism.
The 2025 sighting season is just beginning, and the number of whales is expected to increase as winter and spring progress. Local tour operators are duly authorized and trained to offer guided tours that allow visitors to enjoy the experience without disrupting the natural habitat of the whales.