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It is urgent that, given the uncertainty about the effects of human activities and climate change on threatened migratory species, such as the blue whale, it is necessary to achieve a greater understanding of the ecology of these species.

As there is a lack of information in Spanish waters in this regard, we propose to monitor the blue whale in relation to its migratory patterns, distribution and behaviour within the continental shelf and in particular within areas of the Natura 2000 Network.

To improve the necessary knowledge about the blue whale and other threatened whale species in Natura 2000 sites and to contribute to the conservation of these species.

Sampling and monitoring campaigns for fin whales within Natura 2000 areas: monitoring of the distribution and presence of blue, common and northern whales within Natura 2000 areas on the continental shelf of Galician waters.

• The BALAENATUR project has managed to carry out the largest annual census of blue whales in Spanish waters since records began.
• Confirmation that the Galician coast is a seasonal area for blue whale feeding.
• Confirmation of the presence of the blue whale in Galician waters.
• General recommendations for whale conservation supported by the data obtained.
• Designation of new Sites of Community Importance (SCI) in areas of maximum cetacean density that will give way to future Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) in the marine area.
• Warnings to mariners by the competent authorities, during periods of greatest whale density, to exercise extreme caution during navigation and thus minimise the risk of collisions between vessels and whales.