What inspired the creation of the Delfini del Ponente Association?
We founded the Delfini del Ponente APS association in February 2020.
We were a group of seven young individuals with diverse skills and backgrounds, united by a strong, shared interest in the sea and its creatures.
Our aim was to safeguard the biodiversity of our Ponente Ligure and promote awareness of the wonders of our territory to all categories of people, including the most disadvantaged.
From the outset, we decided to focus on scientific research at sea, monitoring cetaceans and marine fauna, while simultaneously developing training, education, and environmental awareness activities to engage people with the world of research and conservation.
What is the main objective of Delfini del Ponente project?
Our primary objective is to monitor, protect, and study cetaceans and marine fauna, particularly bottlenose dolphins, while also assessing the impact of human activities on the marine environment.
At the same time, we are committed to promoting a culture of respect and protection for the sea by engaging the local community through educational and outreach activities.
What activities do the members of the association carry out during sea outings?
During our sea outings, we conduct visual monitoring and collect scientific data on cetaceans, sea turtles, and other marine species. We primarily use photo-identification techniques to recognize individuals over time and study their movements and behaviors.
We record environmental parameters, observe any interactions with anthropogenic activities, and, if necessary, intervene for the rescue of distressed animals, such as injured turtles.
What are the main threats that dolphins and sea turtles face in the waters of Ponente Ligure?
The primary threats we observe include plastic pollution, acoustic pollution, accidental fishing, collisions with vessels, and the degradation of coastal habitats. These factors jeopardize the survival of both dolphins and sea turtles, making it urgent to focus on conservation efforts and raising awareness among the public.
What does it mean for you to be the only authorized regional entity for the rescue of sea turtles?
Being the only authorized entity in Liguria for the recovery and first aid of sea turtles is both a great honor and a significant responsibility for us. It means that when sea turtles in distress are found, we are the ones who intervene directly to provide initial care, collaborating with recovery centers and specialized veterinarians. This role requires technical preparation, promptness, and a deep understanding of the regulations and biological needs of these extraordinary animals.
2024 has been a challenging year for you! Tell us more and how we can assist you.
Without a doubt, 2024 has been one of the most intense and simultaneously rewarding years for our association.
On one hand, we have faced numerous challenges: managing monitoring activities, enhancing our awareness projects, fundraising efforts, and logistical support. On the other hand, we have experienced unforgettable moments.
We had the unique opportunity to monitor three nests of Caretta caretta turtles in Liguria, an exceptional event for our region! Two of these nests yielded very positive outcomes, with the hatching of numerous hatchlings, and it was an indescribable emotion to witness life take to the sea and to share these moments with hundreds of people. The great interest and engagement from the public filled us with pride and reaffirmed the importance of our work in research and awareness-raising.
What training and awareness activities do you offer to the community?
We organize educational workshops for schools, marine educational excursions, training courses for university students, and public meetings to bring people closer to the world of scientific research and marine conservation. Additionally, we propose citizen science initiatives to allow everyone to actively contribute to data collection and the safeguarding of marine biodiversity.
What makes the Pelagos International Whale Sanctuary a unique place for marine research?
The Pelagos Sanctuary is one of the most important marine protected areas in the Mediterranean, specifically established for the conservation of cetaceans. It is home to eight resident species of cetaceans, supported by the presence of nutrient-rich currents and the unique topography of the seabed. For researchers, working within the Sanctuary means having the opportunity to study a rich and dynamic marine ecosystem, while also embracing the responsibility of safeguarding a natural heritage of international significance.
Delfini Del Ponente would be delighted to share more about their organization and the significance of any contribution to the preservation of Mediterranean biodiversity.
Email: info@delfinidelponente.it
Tel. + 39 338 9287180 / 348 5675479