Canarian Whale and Dolphin Museum

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Interesting insights in the life underwater

The Canary Islands are one of the regions in the world which offers perfect conditions to study the different species of aquatic mammals. Many species are living in the water around the islands; others are passing through during the year. The existence of 27 different species is documented, which makes the Canary Island the only place in Europe where it is possible to watch regularly short-finned pilot whale, the Risso's dolphin, the rough-toothed dolphin, the common bottlenose dolphin, the Atlantic spotted dolphin or the Bryde's whale.

For over 20 years the Society for the Study of Cetaceans in the Canary Islands (SECAC) has studied the animals and many results of their work can be seen in the Canarian Whale and Dolphin Museum in Puerto Calero. The museum is a scientific centre of information where you can find a lot of interesting detail about these fascinating animals, explained in an understandable way. Of course there are no living animals shown, because the best surrounding for the whales and dolphins is the sea. But there are many attention-grabbing displays and documentary films made on the Canary Islands, as well as informative plates show the visitor the way of life and the natural environment of the animals.

In four thematic rooms you will find information about all aspects of the aquatic mammals and next to authentic skeletons a lot of models, based on scientific studies, there is a lot to see. The most important message of the museum is the respect for the environment of these sea animals. Many visitors, which normally only spend their vacations close to the sea, will get a lot of astonishing and interesting information. The children especially love the museum. Because dolphins are one of their favourite animals and because of the different objects and media to touch, see and feel giving them the opportunity to experience using all senses.

A visit to the Canarian Whale and Dolphin Museum is always worthwhile. Tourist will receive a lot of information about the sea around the Canary Islands and also residents will be amazed about how little they know about the environment around them. And one day later on the beach you can start watching for typical signs of dolphins and whales on the sea and you will realize, how close you are to these animals.