Support the Humpback Whales of Chocó: A Call for Action
Every year, between June and October, majestic Humpback Whales migrate to Chocó, Colombia, on the Pacific Coast, to calve and mate. Unfortunately, many arrive entangled and dragging fishing nets from their migration north from Antarctica through major fishing grounds along South America’s west coast. While local regulations prohibit nets in Chocó, rescuing trapped whales is an annual necessity.
The long-term solution is to restrict net use along known migration routes, but this requires time and persistent advocacy. For now, we must act to assist the whales arriving in distress.
We are raising funds to equip a comprehensive Humpback Whale Contingency Plan for calving season 2025, starting in June. These funds will enable Bahía Solano to establish an organized Humpback Whale Rescue Program, similar to those in other critical calving grounds worldwide.
How Your Donation Will Help
Local fishermen are often the first to spot distressed whales. Their willingness to help is heartening, but proper equipment is vital for effective rescues. Funds raised will go directly toward:
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Marine GPS Trackers:
- 30 AIS buoy fishing net tracker beacons for fishermen to tag and track entangled whales.
- Cost: $120 each, total $3,600.
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Rescue Knives:
- High-safety ligature knives cut nets when safely without risking injury to the whale.
- Cost: $15 each, total $450.
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Specialized Rescue Equipment:
- 2 sea drogues for slowing whales ($240).
- 10 high-displacement inflatable buoys ($1,700).
- Ropes, climbing webbing, and carabiners ($350).
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Inflatable Rescue Dinghies:
- 2 small, inflatable dinghies with electric outboards for safe, efficient rescues.
- Cost: $4,600 total.
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Custom Cutting Tools:
- Specialty tools for net removal.
- Cost: $1,000.
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Shipping:
- To deliver all equipment to Bahía Solano.
- Cost: $3,070.
Why This Matters
Humpback Whales inspire awe and humility. Their songs sparked the environmental movement, reminding us of our interconnectedness with nature. Helping these magnificent creatures is a powerful statement of our commitment to preserving our planet.
Get Involved
We invite you to participate in the "Le Chapeau du Changement" Social Media Campaign:
- Share your passion for whales by circulating a collection “hat” among friends, family, and coworkers. Online and in the real world help us with our fund drive by sharing your love for whales with the people in your life.
- Post pictures and videos of your efforts on Instagram with #hotelcostachoco.
- Your contributions will be highlighted in a final audiovisual presentation during the donation ceremony in Bahía Solano to really put a face to your kind generosity.
Hotel Costa Chocó offers discounts on accommodations and activities during the 2025 calving season to donors. Come see the Humpback whales for yourself. Follow us on Instagram (@hotelcostachoco) for updates.
Together, we can make a real difference for the Humpback Whales of Chocó. Thank you for your support!
