Menorca sperm whale breeding area confirmed by Association Tursiops

Scientists from the non‑profit Association Tursiops identified 48 sperm whales in the waters north of Menorca during a two‑week research cruise covering about 1,100 nautical miles. More than 20 % of the individuals were calves, confirming the region as a key breeding ground for the species.

The expedition, part of the "Moby Mummy" project, combined visual sightings with acoustic recordings, DNA‑environmental sampling and aerial imaging to document individual whales, assess their nutritional state and detect possible pregnancies. Researchers also recorded other cetaceans and sea turtles.

Based on the findings, Association Tursiops has asked Spain’s Ministry of Ecological Transition to designate the north‑Menorca zone as a marine protected area, aiming to safeguard the western Mediterranean’s most important sperm‑whale nursery.