Whale Shark Mexico is a research project by Dení Ramírez Macías and her team focused on conservation, education and sustainable management of the charismatic yet endangered whale sharks.

They are responsible for a continuous monitoring program on the distribution and abundance of the species in the Gulf of California. This is one of the few places in the world where whale sharks can be found as both juveniles and adult pregnant females. Over a decade of whale shark monitoring have been key to establishing La Paz Bay as a critical habitat of the species, which needs to be protected.

Recognised as an endangered species on the IUCN Red List over 60% of whale sharks researched in the La Paz area show injuries caused by boats and Whale Shark Mexico have worked closely with the Mexican Government to put new regulations in place to minimise damage from boats.

You can get involved as a long-term volunteer or for an internship. For those visiting La Paz for a short stay you can join a research day trip with the team.