SETTING

The Bay of Biscay

   E.I.B.E. carries out its activities in the waters of the Basque coast, in the south of the Bay of Biscay, in the west of the Atlantic Ocean.

   Due to its oceanographical characteristics, it is an ideal place to shelter a multitude of cetaceans species. Of the 80 listed species, 23 can be found in these waters, including the common, stripped, and bottlenose dolphins. Porpoises, orcas and sperm whales also find a suitable environment for their biological development, as do the fin and white-finned whales, and the rare, elusive ziphius.

 

  Due to its importance, the Gulf of Biscay may possibly be named “Sanctuary for cetaceans”.

  According to History, the first whalers in the Cantabrian Sea were the ancient settlers on the Basque Coast, whose whaling expeditions took them as far as Canadian waters.

  Their skills reached most parts of the world. Changes in whaling, and the application of more sophisticated techniques in order to capture a greater number, had catastrophic consequences. We have, as an example, the magnificent animal which is the symbol of our association the so called Basque or Frankish Whale which suffered such great losses that it finally disappeared from these waters.Many programmes and committees have been set up in many countries for the sole purpose of protecting this group of animals.

 The Basque Country has a great fishing tradition. Despite the great profits acquired from the marine resources, little importance has been given to the riches, which, far from having a commercial value, have a vital importance in the well-being of the sea, as do the cetaceans.

   So we believe that it is our responsibility to conserve and safeguard these animals and their environment for the well-being of posterity. With no other intention, E.I.B.E. was created. If you want to know us, support our cause or simply to clarify any uncertainty, .get in touch with us.