Our Mission:
The Bahamas Marine Mammal Research Organisation (BMMRO) was founded to promote the local and global conservation of marine mammals and their natural habitats. This is achieved by conducting scientific field studies in The Bahamas and disseminating the results to local policy makers and the international scientific community, and by developing environmental education programmes to raise awareness and appreciation of marine mammals amongst Bahamians. We are dedicated to conducting long-term studies, are open to partnerships and collaborations, and provide opportunities for other scientists, through data sharing and field training.

BMMRO has been conducting a long-term study documenting the occurrence, distribution, and abundance of marine mammals around the islands of The Bahamas since 1991. Currently based in Sandy Point on Great Abaco Island, this project provides the only comprehensive documentation of marine mammal fauna in this part of the world.

Our research methodologies include systematic boat-based surveys to describe the distribution and habitat use of different marine mammal species. We employ photo-identification techniques for the recognition of individual whales and dolphins, and we have developed new statistical approaches for using these data to determine abundance estimates and occupancy patterns. This photographic sampling is complemented by the collection of skin and faecal samples for molecular genetic analysis, and we have developed a novel technique for the successful amplification of marine mammal DNA from faeces.

These genetic techniques are being used to assess levels of genetic diversity and investigate the structuring of marine mammal populations. Additionally, detailed vessel-based observations are made on marine mammal behaviours, habitat use, and social interactions to better understand the ecology of the species sighted.

The Bahamas Marine Mammal Research Organisation uses the help of volunteers to achieve some of its' goals. Our volunteers join us through several different types of internship programmes, and include foreign nationals, Bahamian high school students, college and university students; as well as volunteers through the Earthwatch organisation.

We also run an environmental children's camp for the local children of Sandy Point, allowing us to help educate and share our nature and conservation ethos with our community.