Loreto: A Sanctuary at Risk

Loreto Bay National Park is home to endangered species like blue whales and mako sharks, offering a critical refuge for their survival. Yet, contradictions threaten this marine sanctuary—shark fishing remains legal, longlines are found in feeding grounds, and increasing cruise traffic disrupts these fragile ecosystems.
In this blog, we explore the urgent need for stronger protections to preserve Loreto as a safe haven for these iconic species.

Did you know that mako sharks are the fastest sharks in the world? Capable of reaching speeds of up to 74 km/h, these apex predators are perfectly engineered for speed and precision. Their sleek, hydrodynamic bodies and crescent-shaped tails allow them to glide effortlessly through the water. Often spotted near the surface, mako sharks are one of the ocean’s most mesmerizing species, and during our wildlife expeditions during winter in Loreto, Baja California Sur, we’re lucky enough to occasionally witness their graceful power in action.

*Mako shark swimming in Loreto, BCS, by Regina Domingo*

But mako sharks are more than just oceanic marvels; they play a crucial role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. As apex predators, they regulate populations of prey species, ensuring balance within the ocean’s delicate web of life.

Sharks in Loreto: Guardians of a healthy ocean

Loreto, located within the Gulf of California and home to Loreto Bay National Park, is a treasure trove of marine biodiversity. This pristine ecosystem is not only a winter refuge for blue whales but also a vital habitat for several species of sharks, including hammerhead sharks, silky sharks, and thresher sharks.

*Hammerhead shark swimming in Loreto, BCS, by Regina Domingo*

• Hammerhead sharks (Sphyrna spp.): Recognizable by their iconic, hammer-shaped heads, these sharks are listed as Critically Endangered or Endangered by the IUCN, depending on the species.

• Silky sharks (Carcharhinus falciformis): These sleek predators are classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN and are protected under Appendix II of CITES.

• Thresher sharks (Alopias spp.): Known for their long, whip-like tails, they are listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN and are also included in CITES Appendix II.

*Dead juvenile hammerhead shark found by Yago Rodriguez from Blue Nation inside Loreto Bay National Park.*

Yesterday, while conducting one of our blue whale expeditions in Loreto Bay, we were fortunate to witness not only the majestic blue whales feeding but also saw endangered mako sharks swimming at the surface. However, it was disheartening to observe shark fishing longlines in the same area.

This situation reveals a serious concern: both mako sharks and the blue whale face significant threats to their survival. Mako sharks, recently classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), are at risk due to overfishing and habitat degradation. Yesterday during one of our blue whale expedition, we observed mako sharks swimming near the surface, and our team found shark fishing longlines in the same area where blue whales were feeding. This overlap of endangered species and harmful fishing practices underscores the urgent need for stronger protections to preserve these vital marine ecosystems and the species that depend on them.

*Aerial photo of Carmen Island by Leopoldo Sanmiguel.*

Blue whales are already facing significant local threats, particularly from ship strikes due to the increasing number of large vessels in their migration waters with millions of fishing vessels and thousands of cruise ships navigating the oceans daily. Before reaching Loreto, these whales encounter numerous ships, and now, with more cruise ships arriving in Loreto Bay, the risks are escalating. Research has shown that the noise generated by these vessels disrupts the whales' communication and navigation, leading to stress and changes in their feeding and mating behaviors.

Vessel collisions pose a serious risk as well, with estimates indicating that hundreds of thousands of marine animals are injured or killed each year due to large ships. A comprehensive review of over 200 studies highlights that cruise ships contribute to environmental degradation through pollution and habitat disruption, making marine life even more vulnerable. .This increase in maritime traffic poses a direct threat to blue whales, which are already endangered, with an estimated population of only 10,000 to 25,000 remaining worldwide. The situation in Loreto emphasizes the urgent need for stronger regulations to protect these fragile species and their ecosystems from the growing threats posed by maritime traffic. By raising awareness and advocating for responsible tourism practices, we can help ensure a safer environment for blue whales and other marine life in this unique sanctuary.

This begs the critical question: how can a national park, designed to protect marine biodiversity, continue to allow activities that harm such vital species?

Regina Domingo: A Life dedicated to shark conservation

At the helm of our efforts to protect endangered species is Regina Domingo, the founder of the Nakawe Project 501 (c) 3 and director of Baja Adventures.

With a career spanning over a decade, Regina has dedicated her life to marine conservation, with a particular passion for sharks and marine mammals.

Her journey began with a life-changing experience volunteering in Cocos Island a world heritage site in Costa Rivca to combat illegal shark fishing. Inspired by the documentary Sharkwater by Rob Stewart she decided to devote her life to protecting these misunderstood creatures.

After several years in Cocos Island and Costa Rica working with Randal Arauz, a renowned conservationist and biologist, on shark conservation projects and campaigns, Rob Stewart contacted Regina Domingo. She was invited to be part of his second documentary, Sharkwater Extinction. Tragically, Rob Stewart passed away during the production, leaving Regina alongside other dedicated individuals like Randal and Brock Cahill to carry on his legacy.

Together, they form the core team of Sharkwater, continuing to represent a global tribe committed to protecting sharks.

*Regina Domingo during an interview at the TIFF festival.*

In 2016, Regina Domingo joined Randal Arauz in the Sharks Alive campaign, advocating for the inclusion of silky and thresher sharks in Appendix II of CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) during COP17 in Johannesburg. This campaign utilized data and lobbying efforts from Costa Rican fisheries to achieve this critical conservation milestone.

*Randal Arauz, Regina Domingo and Todd Steiner at CITES 2016*

Following this success, Regina relocated to Baja California Sur, Mexico, where she launched the A Break for Makos campaign through the Nakawe Project. This initiative raised awareness about the threats facing mako sharks and advocated for their protection. Her efforts culminated in a significant achievement at COP18 in 2019, when mako sharks were officially listed under Appendix II of CITES, imposing international trade restrictions and emphasizing the urgency of their conservation.

Regina’s dedication extended to her involvement in FIN The Movie , a documentary by Leonardo DiCaprio and Eli Roth. In the film, she is seen working closely with local artisanal fishermen in Baja California Sur, collecting vital data on shark fisheries. Through her efforts, she demonstrated to these fishermen that sharks are more valuable alive than dead, promoting ecotourism as a sustainable alternative to fishing. This approach has led many former shark fishermen to transition into successful tourism operators, showcasing sharks and marine life to visitors while preserving the delicate ocean ecosystem. The Nakawe Project supported these fishermen during their transition, fostering sustainable livelihoods and contributing to shark conservation efforts globally.

*Regina Domingo and Eli Roth, during the production of Fin in Baja California Sur, worked closely with local shark fishermen*

Today, under Regina Domingo's leadership, the Nakawe Project continues to work tirelessly in Baja California Sur. Dedicated to educating communities about the vital role of sharks and other endangered species in maintaining healthy ecosystems as thriving communities. Their advocacy efforts focus on promoting stricter protections for these species, emphasizing sustainable practices that benefit both wildlife and local livelihoods.

Nakawe collaborate with local stakeholders, fostering a sense of responsibility towards conservation and encouraging sustainable tourism as an alternative to harmful fishing practices. Through workshops, community outreach, and partnerships with researchers, Nakawe Project is making significant strides in wildlife conservation. Their commitment not only contributes to the protection of endangered species but also supports the development of sustainable livelihoods for local communities, ensuring that both people and nature thrive together in Baja California Sur.

Why protect sharks?

Sharks are not just amazing animals; they are crucial for the health of our oceans. By keeping the populations of their prey in check, sharks help maintain balance in marine ecosystems. When shark numbers decrease, it can cause problems throughout the food web, affecting many other species and the overall health of the ocean.

Unfortunately, many shark species are now facing extinction due to overfishing, habitat destruction, and the global shark fin trade.

In Loreto and across the Baja California Peninsula, sharks are still targeted for sport and commercial fishing, despite protections under international agreements like CITES and IUCN. CITES is a global treaty that regulates the trade of endangered species to ensure their survival, while IUCN is an organization that monitors species' extinction risks through its Red List. Targeting sharks threatens not only their populations but also the health of entire marine ecosystems, highlighting the urgent need for stronger enforcement of these protections.

Loreto: A vital sanctuary for marine life

In Loreto, is a vibrant marine ecosystem where every species plays an important role. From tiny krill, plankton, and tunicates that feed the majestic blue whales and mobula rays, to sardines that sustain dolphins, fin whales, and other predatory fish, each creature contributes to the delicate balance of this environment. These smaller fish are also food for large sharks that swim through the waters, which in turn can become prey for the powerful orcas. This rich ecosystem is a rare example of harmony found in few places on Earth. Loreto Bay National Park, known as the "Aquarium of the World," is a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its incredible biodiversity. It is home to over 900 species of fish, 170 types of birds, and more than 30 species of marine mammals. However, this unique environment faces threats from human activities like overfishing and coastal development. Protecting this area is essential not only for the survival of its diverse species but also for maintaining the health of our oceans.

By supporting conservation efforts and responsible tourism, we can help ensure that Loreto remains a healthy sanctuary for marine life and communities to thrive.

*Family of orcas in Loreto Bay National Park photographed by Regina Domingo during a Baja Adventures marine expedition.*

However, this pristine sanctuary faces threats from overfishing, coastal development, and climate change as many places around the world.

As we confront a global biodiversity loss of 73% (WWF Living Planet Report), preserving sanctuaries like Loreto is critical. If we fail to protect these last pristine ecosystems like Loreto, what legacy are we leaving for future generations?

Be part of the solutions :

Protect sharks in Baja: Choose seafood responsibly

One way to help protect sharks in Baja California is to be mindful of the seafood you consume. In Mexico, fish tacos and salted bacalao are often made with shark meat, and shark is commonly sold as "cazón" in markets and supermarkets. Additionally, while shark fins are exported, their meat is widely consumed locally. By asking about the type of fish you’re eating and choosing trusted suppliers, you can make more sustainable choices. Raising awareness and supporting responsible fishing practices are key steps to protecting sharks and preserving marine ecosystems for future generations.

Say No to cruise tourism, support responsible local travel:

To preserve the beauty of Loreto and its marine life, we must prioritize low-scale, local tourism over large cruise ships. Supporting responsible tourism helps keep our waters pristine and minimizes the impact on vulnerable species, ensuring that this unique sanctuary remains a thriving ecosystem for generations to come

Join #KeepBajaWild and Nakawe Project

Join our #KeepBajaWild campaign at the Nakawe Project 501 (c) 3 and help us protect the stunning Baja California Peninsula. Your support will enable our team to preserve its unique biodiversity, pristine ecosystems, and cultural heritage. Together, we can ensure that Baja remains wild, healthy, and thriving for future generations. Donate today or learn more at www.nakaweproject.org.

Join a regenerative tourism expedition

At Baja Adventures and Nakawe Project , we are proud to offer regenerative tourism expeditions that focus on conservation and education.

When you join us, you’ll have the chance to explore the incredible biodiversity of Loreto Bay National Park with our expert guides, including Regina Domingo herself and Leopoldo Sanmiguel, our Baja Adventures founder.

Whether it’s spotting a mako shark, observing blue whales, or learning about the park’s delicate ecosystem, every expedition is an opportunity to connect with nature and contribute to its protection.

During our expeditions, we actively collect data and create photo identification catalogs of marine mammals. We also report any illegal activities within the national park to the appropriate authorities. Additionally, we engage with our participants to emphasize the importance of protecting endangered species and preserving fragile ecosystems. By fostering awareness and encouraging responsible stewardship, we aim to contribute to the conservation of these vital marine environments.

Together with the Nakawe Project, we are committed to ensuring a future where marine species continue to thrive in the waters of Loreto and Baja California Sur, and hopefully across the globe, as many of these species are highly migratory.

Let’s raise awareness and demand stricter protections for these incredible creatures. After all, a healthy ocean depends on them—and on us.

Ready to join an adventure for conservation? Visit www.bajaadventures.com to learn more about our expeditions or support the Nakawe Project at www.nakaweproject.org.

Join an expedition with us

Marine wonders of Loreto: A fragile sanctuary for whales and sharks