Stiftung firmm – Protecting Whales and Dolphins

Founded in 1998 by Swiss conservationist Katharina Heyer, Stiftung firmm (Foundation for Information and Research on Marine Mammals) is a nonprofit foundation dedicated to protecting whales, dolphins and their natural habitat.Operating from Tarifa in southern Spain, firmm focuses on the Strait of Gibraltar, one of the world's most important passages for marine mammals. This narrow stretch of water connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Mediterranean Sea and provides habitat and migration routes for several species of whales and dolphins.

Research for Marine Conservation

The foundation conducts regular observation trips to collect scientific data on marine mammal populations, behaviour and movements. Its researchers use these observations to better understand the threats facing cetaceans and to advocate for effective conservation measures. One notable achievement was firmm's contribution to changing the Tarifa–Tangier ferry route to reduce disturbance to pilot whales.

Responsible Whale Watching

firmm offers educational whale-watching excursions that allow visitors to observe whales and dolphins in their natural environment. Before and during each trip, participants learn about marine mammals, their behaviour and the challenges they face.The foundation follows responsible whale-watching practices designed to minimise disturbance to wildlife.

Education and Awareness

Through public presentations, educational materials, observation weeks and activities for children, firmm encourages people to develop a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems. The foundation believes that personal encounters with wild marine mammals can inspire people to become active advocates for ocean protection.

Supporting the Future of Marine Mammals

Donations help finance research, scientific data analysis and educational programmes. Supporters can also contribute through symbolic whale and dolphin sponsorships.By combining scientific research with unforgettable encounters at sea, Stiftung firmm helps protect marine mammals while inspiring a more responsible relationship between people and the ocean.

Photo Credits by: ©Firmm
https://www.firmm.org/de/