Portugal stamps year 1983 sea animals – whales, dolphin, seal

Portugal stamps year 1983 sea animals – whales, dolphin, seal

Portugal has several marine protected areas and is known for its whale and dolphin watching tourism, particularly in:

• The Azores archipelago
• Madeira archipelago
• The continental coast, especially around Setúbal and the Sado Estuary

The waters around the Azores are particularly important as they serve as a vital migration route and feeding ground for many of these species. The region is considered one of Europe’s premier whale-watching destinations, with over 20 different species of cetaceans observed throughout the year.

Whales:

• Fin Whale (Baleia-comum): The second-largest whale species, frequently spotted off the Portuguese coast
• Sperm Whale (Cachalote): Regular visitor to the Azores archipelago
• Minke Whale (Baleia-anã): Common in Portuguese waters, especially during migration
• Blue Whale (Baleia-azul): Occasionally seen, particularly around the Azores

Dolphins:

• Common Dolphin (Golfinho-comum): Very abundant in Portuguese waters
• Bottlenose Dolphin (Roaz): Found along the entire Portuguese coast
• Striped Dolphin (Golfinho-riscado): Regular visitor to deeper offshore waters
• Risso’s Dolphin (Grampo): Known for its distinctive gray coloring and scarred appearance

Seals:

• Mediterranean Monk Seal (Foca-monge-do-mediterrâneo): Critically endangered species, occasionally spotted near Madeira
• Harbor Seal (Foca-comum): Rare visitor to Portuguese waters