Misión Tiburón – Saving Hammerhead Sharks

Founded in 2009, Misión Tiburón is a Costa Rican nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting sharks and marine ecosystems through scientific research, conservation action and environmental education.The organization focuses particularly on the critically endangered scalloped hammerhead shark (Sphyrna lewini), whose populations are threatened by overfishing, accidental capture and the destruction of important coastal habitats.

Protecting Hammerhead Shark Nurseries

One of Misión Tiburón's most significant achievements is its contribution to the establishment of the Golfo Dulce Scalloped Hammerhead Shark Sanctuary in Costa Rica in 2018.Through years of scientific research, the team demonstrated that the coastal waters and mangrove ecosystems of Golfo Dulce provide essential nursery habitat for juvenile hammerhead sharks.This research helped secure legal protection for an important area where young sharks can grow before migrating into the open Pacific Ocean.

Research and Conservation

Misión Tiburón conducts shark tagging and monitoring programmes to better understand migration patterns, population dynamics and habitat use.The organization also works with government authorities, fishing communities and conservation partners to improve fisheries management and protect threatened marine species.

Restoring Mangroves and Empowering Communities

Healthy mangrove ecosystems are essential for young sharks and countless other marine animals. Misión Tiburón supports mangrove restoration projects and involves local communities in protecting these important coastal habitats.Through its Mujeres Martillo initiative, the organization also creates opportunities for women in coastal communities to participate in conservation and sustainable economic activities.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Environmental education is another central part of its mission. Misión Tiburón works with children, students and fishing communities to raise awareness about the ecological importance of sharks and the threats they face.Through donations and partnerships, supporters can help fund shark research, habitat restoration, conservation education and the protection of vulnerable marine wildlife.By combining science, community involvement and practical conservation, Misión Tiburón is helping secure a future for sharks in Costa Rica and throughout the Eastern Tropical Pacific.

Photo Credits by: ©Misión Tiburón
https://www.misiontiburon.org/