Each year, thousands of tourists travel to Mexico to see humpback whales and swim with whale sharks. Although existing government guidelines seek to ensure such tourism remains safe for marine wildlife, recent studies document harmful practices.By Andrés MuedanoEvery December, hundreds of humpback whales arrive at Bahía de Banderas, a warm and turquoise bay nestled along Mexico’s western coast, right where the states of Jalisco and Nayarit meet. Following a long voyage from the cold seas of Alaska, the whales mate, give birth and nurture their calves in the bay before heading back north at the end of March.

Read original article

Read original article