Musandam – A Bryde’s whale has been recorded for the first time in Musandam in what Environment Authority (EA) has described as a significant step in Oman’s marine conservation efforts. The sighting was made during fieldwork by specialists from the Marine Mammal Species Survey Project, which has been underway in phases since 2023.

The whale was spotted with a calf in the waters of Khawr Najd. A video released by EA showed the animal surfacing, offering a rare glimpse of the elusive species in the region. The observation took place during the project’s fifth phase currently being conducted in Khasab from April 13 to 24.

Bryde’s whales (Balaenoptera edeni) have previously been sighted, including with calves, in the Gulf of Masirah and Muscat, but never before in Musandam. The new sighting contributes to efforts aimed at mapping marine life in Musandam National Nature Reserve, a key part of Oman’s long-term biodiversity strategy.

Aida bint Khalaf al Jabriya, who heads the project, said the discovery enhances understanding of lesser-known marine species in the sultanate. “This survey represents a pioneering effort that integrates fieldwork with scientific research,” she said. “It contributes to the creation of a national database that enhances Oman’s commitment to protecting marine life and ensuring sustainability for future generations.”

Distinguished by three ridges on the top of the head, Bryde’s whales are typically found in warmer waters. These feed mainly on small fish and plankton, using a ‘surge and swallow’ technique, and are usually seen alone or in small groups. These characteristics make confirmed sightings particularly valuable for researchers.

Aida informed that her team uses a combination of visual monitoring and digital tools to record sightings. “Our team conducts visual monitoring using binoculars and the naked eye, searching for signs such as surface disturbances or bird behaviour indicating fish presence.”

Observations are recorded using a custom-built application called Spinner, supported by high-resolution cameras, drones and GoPros. “Each sighting is documented with species data, group size, behaviour, time and precise location,” Aida added. “We also gather environmental data including water depth, wind speed, and marine mammal vocalisations to enrich our understanding and support scientific research.”

Since the start of the survey, 38 marine mammal sightings have been logged in Musandam, including Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, spinner dolphins, long-beaked common dolphins and pantropical spotted dolphins. Humpback dolphins were mostly recorded in the western parts of the reserve, while larger groups of other species were seen in areas like Ras Shas, Khasab and Khawr Najd.

The findings underline the ecological importance of Musandam’s coastal waters and reinforce calls for continued monitoring and conservation to protect Oman’s marine biodiversity.