Reminders to tourists visiting Donsol, Sorsogon
PHOTO COURTESY OF WWF PHILIPPINES
According to the World Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF Philippines), the best time to visit Donsol, Sorsogon for whale shark interactions are during the first half of the year. In 2024, the most number of sightings were in April.
Here’s a table showing the number of whale shark encounters this year from February to June. Do note that “encounters” are different from “individual whale sharks.”
| Month | New | Resight | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| February | 4 | 3 | 7 |
| March | 12 | 21 | 33 |
| April | 19 | 24 | 43 |
| May | 10 | 22 | 32 |
| June | 3 | 14 | 22 |
| TOTAL | 48 | 84 | 137 |
This data suggests that if you are planning a visit to Donsol next year, you might want to consider visiting in April.
In 2024, sightings of new individuals sharks were also up this year. While the table above shows the number of encounters, this does not mean that one encounter is equivalent to one whale shark. Some of these whale sharks are re-encountered and are scientifically proven to be previous visitors in the area through a process called photo identification, in which whale sharks are cataloged through their spots and other markings, much like fingerprinting a person.
We have a few reminders, however, you are planning a visit:
- Spotting a whale shark is not guaranteed. Remember, this is their natural habitat, not a zoo. The sharks come and go as they please. You and others in your boat will have up to four hours to try and catch a glimpse. Rest assured, the butanding interaction officers (BIO) and spotters are highly skilled at finding these gentle giants.
- It’s crucial not to feed or touch the sharks. Feeding them can endanger them by making them associate boats with food. This can lead to dangerous encounters with hunting boats when they’re not in the safe waters of Donsol.
- If you don’t see the whale sharks, some BIOs will still ensure you have a memorable experience by taking you to a coral reef spot for snorkeling.
- Donsol offers more than just whale shark interactions. Firefly watching along the Donsol River is a year-round attraction. Additionally, ask your guides about the mangroves to learn about their importance to the ecosystem.
Enjoy your visit!
Share this:
Please follow Visit Bicol on Facebook.
Want us to know about an upcoming event in your area? You can contact us here.
What to get updated about events like this? Sign up for an email blast here.
Post Comment