A pod of approximately thirty false killer whales was observed near the Belize Barrier Reef system on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, prompting concern among marine biologists due to the species' preference for deep ocean waters.
False killer whales, a type of dolphin, are not typically found in shallow coastal areas like the Belize Barrier Reef. They have been sighted in Belizean waters in the past, including incidents in 2018 and 2024. On those occasions, the whales were able to return to their natural habitat.
Following the recent sighting, marine biologist Jamal Galves, along with representatives from the Belize Fisheries Department and the Wildlife Conservation Society, conducted a search near Drowned Caye. The search team did not locate the whales, suggesting they may have returned to deeper waters. Galves expressed optimism regarding their safe return. During the search, the team observed local dolphins displaying mating behavior.