Cozumel Could Become Home to Latin America’s First Dolphin Sanctuary

Cozumel, Quintana Roo — The Quintana Roo Department of Ecology and Environment has begun initial technical studies, in partnership with civil groups, to create the first dolphin sanctuary in Latin America on the island of Cozumel.

Óscar Rébora Aguilera, the department’s director, said in an interview on the island that the sanctuary would be a significant step for animal welfare in the region, prioritizing rehabilitation and semi-wild care for the species. He said officials are reviewing several places on the island, including some dolphinariums and natural sites, where the sanctuary could be set up or built.

Rébora noted that Cozumel has both the natural and infrastructure conditions to host a facility that would be the first of its kind in Latin America. He stressed, however, that no start date has been set, as further studies are needed to select the right location.

“We believe Cozumel can be a great option. However, we are waiting to begin the studies; we have to look at some sites, we have to find the ideal place,” he said.

The project will be developed alongside experts and environmental organizations, Rébora added. He described the sanctuary as a potentially international model and one of the current state administration’s flagship animal-protection initiatives.

The announcement comes about a month after PETA Latino launched an urgent petition asking the Quintana Roo government to create Mexico’s first coastal dolphin sanctuary, with the goal of moving cetaceans out of captivity and tourist shows. The petition remains open on PETA Latino’s official channels.