The Wildlife Trust of India's "Pan India Whale Shark Project" has achieved a remarkable milestone by rescuing and releasing 1,001 whale sharks that were accidentally entangled in fishing nets. This success showcases the collaboration between conservationists, government agencies, and compassionate fishing communities dedicated to saving these gentle giants of the ocean.
Whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) are the largest fish in the ocean, with the largest recorded specimen measuring 62 feet (18.8 meters). Despite their size, they are filter feeders, primarily consuming plankton and small fish. Recognizable by their unique patterns of white spots and stripes on a grayish-blue body, these migratory creatures are found in tropical and warm temperate oceans worldwide. Unfortunately, they are listed as endangered due to threats like accidental entanglement, habitat destruction, and hunting.
The latest rescue took place on the festive day of Pongal in Achutheghu, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Fisherfolk skillfully disentangled a whale shark from their nets and guided it back into the sea, marking the 34th rescue in Kerala since joining the project in 2017. This initiative, led by WTI in collaboration with local Forest and Fisheries Departments, has thrived through the unwavering support of local communities.
Saymanti B, Officer-in-Charge of Natural Heritage Campaigns at WTI, emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, "The 34th rescue from our project site stands as a testament to the power of successful private partnerships. These achievements would not have been possible without the incredible collaboration of the fishing community, supportive collaborators, and donors."
The project began in Gujarat in 2004, aiming to combat the alarming threat of mass hunting of whale sharks, which gained attention through Mike Pandey's documentary, "Shores of Silence." Following a report revealing over 600 whale shark landings, the Indian government listed the species in Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, granting it the highest level of protection.
Since its inception, the project in Gujarat has facilitated the rescue and release of 967 whale sharks, with the participation of local fishers being crucial. Their willingness to adapt fishing practices has significantly contributed to the initiative's success. WTI has also tagged 11 whale sharks since 2011, allowing researchers to track their movements and better understand their migration patterns. Farukhkha Bloch, Head of the Pan India Whale Shark Project, noted, "The Saurashtra coast of Gujarat hosts a preferred aggregation habitat for whale sharks, especially females to give birth and feed on plankton." With ongoing efforts, the hope is to continue studying these magnificent creatures and enhance conservation strategies for their survival.