Whalesharks are back in Ycantan Area
If you want to know what it is like to be in the water with the whale sharks off of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, stand in the middle of the street while 30 school buses (with their hoods up) come at you from all directions. For the past decade there has been a growing awareness of whale shark congregations during the summer months around the Yucatan.
With the ability to filter 1,500 gallons an hour, the whale sharks gorge themselves on the fish eggs. Originally reported by fisherman from Isla Holbox, the shallow water feeding area quickly became a remote tourist destination. A second congregation has been found in the deeper waters of the Gulf about 20 to 30 miles out from Isla Mujeres just northeast of Cancun. Locally called the “Afuera” (outside), this grouping of whale sharks appears to gather to feed on huge patches of fish eggs from spawning Little Tunny/ Bonito (small Atlantic Tuna). In fact, the surface water of the ocean can become almost milky with fish eggs and the whale sharks converge on these nutrient-rich patches.
From May to September, whale sharks supply a significant tourist attraction for Mexico. In order to protect the sharks, the Mexican government in coordination with local biologists, has set up specific viewing regulations. Tee’d Off Tee Times snorkeled off of Holbox Island. Call for details Toll free 1855-833-3633
http://teedoff.com.mx/cancun-golf-courses/
Text and Photos by Stanley Bysshe