Manta Ray Conservation in the Maldives Highlighted on CNN’s Call to Earth

In January 2021, Call to Earth by CNN highlighted manta ray conservation in the Maldives and the challenges faced by these majestic creatures. As part of the programme, the project manager of the Maldivian Manta Ray Project, Beth Faulkner, was interviewed and shed more light on mantas, their behaviour and the threat of habitat loss. The country has approximately 5,000 manta rays, the largest population in the world; it’s also where one can witness the world’s largest manta ray aggregation at the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

Amongst the many points brought to light in the programme was that when people get to swim beside manta rays, they are inspired to protect them and help in conservation efforts. In fact, those staying at over water villas Maldives has to offer in an island resort in the Baa Atoll can do just that; properties like Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas provide guests with a chance to snorkel with mantas at Hanifaru Bay in this atoll which is an unforgettable experience.