Since 2002 Panacetacea has been conducting surveys for marine mammals in the Chiriqui Gulf. Our main objective is to monitor two different humpback whale populations that both use Chiriqui as a wintering area: one migrating from feeding areas off Antarctica and Chile and are seen between July and October, and one migrating from feeding areas off the west coast of the US and are seen between December and April. We document habitat use, behaviors, take identification photos, record song, and collect biopsy samples We’ve also documented other species of marine mammals, including Bryde’s whales, and four species of odontocetes.

Since 2004 we have been working in Bocas del Toro studying the ecology, behavior, and genetics of a resident population of bottlenose dolphins. We also study the potential impact of human activities on the animals and their habitat. Our work has demonstrated that Bocas dolphins are negatively impacted by direct interactions with tour boats. Our reports to the International Whaling Commission and to the Panamanian Government have helped government officials to become more aware of the situation.

The ONDAS initiative is a remote underwater acoustic surveillance network that records the soundscape of several marine communities. Data collected through this initiative can generate acoustic measures of biodiversity, flagship species abundance, and ambient noise levels, as indicators of community health.
The goal of this initiative is to provide stakeholders in Central America with the tools and information to evaluate the effectiveness of Marine Protected Areas. The initiative aims to facilitate timely decisions on conservation planning by promoting connectivity and research. This will allow us to better assess the economic value of these areas and enhance awareness of marine conservation in the region.