We have monitored the seasonal abundance and distribution of whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) and oceanic manta rays (Mobula birostris) around the island of Boavista, Cabo Verde, since 2015.

Fisher and boat-based surveys with traditional artisanal fishers have revealed the SW quadrant to be the seasonal focus of mega-planktivores between June and October. Trained in-water observers collect identification images and deploy towed SPOT tags (Smart Position Only Tracking satellite tags) to add to an expanding catalogue of the visiting populations and a growing understanding of the spatial ecology of whale sharks and manta rays in the tropical Atlantic Ocean.