Dominica is creating the world’s first marine protected area for the endangered sperm whale.

According to Associated Press, nearly 800 square kilometers of ocean on the western side of the island that serves as key nursing and feeding grounds will be designated as a reserve.

In waters around Dominica and elsewhere, sperm whales have been hit by ships, entangled in fishing gear and affected by agricultural runoff, limiting their survival.

The government of Dominica said the reserve will allow sustainable artisanal fishing and delineate an international shipping lane to avoid more deaths of sperm whales.

In a statement, Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit also said, “We want to ensure these majestic and highly intelligent animals are safe from harm and continue keeping our waters and our climate healthy.” 

Scientists say the reserve not only will protect the animals, but it will also help fight climate change.

Once the reserve is created, an officer and observers will be appointed to ensure the area is respected and that whale tourism regulations are enforced – visitors can still swim with sperm whales and see them from a boat, but in limited numbers.

(Feature Photo via NAMMCO – North Atlantic Marine Mammal Commission)