February 18 (Lunar calendar: January 9 ), 2024 Sunday | Dawnxisoul393art
The ocean was calm and peaceful as the whale-watching tour boat glided through the water off the coast of British Columbia. Suddenly, a giant humpback whale breached the surface just 50 meters from the boat, leaping almost completely out of the water before crashing back into the sea. Gasps and cheers erupted from the passengers who were soaked by the splash. A few minutes later, the massive mammal breached again, giving the onlookers a spectacular show of its power and grace.
To raise awareness of these magnificent but endangered sea creatures, World Whale Day is celebrated every February. It was founded in 1980 by marine activists to commemorate the first meeting of the International Whaling Commission (IWC) in 1946 which oversees the conservation of whales. For many years, various whale species were hunted extensively, driving populations to the brink of extinction.
Whales play an important role in maintaining the health of the ocean. They provide a natural check and balance in the ecosystem by consuming huge amounts of krill, small fish, and plankton. Their droppings also fertilize the ocean and provide nutrients to plankton. However, due to commercial whaling in the early 20th century, it is estimated that over 300,000 whales were killed. Some whale populations declined by up to 90% before a moratorium on hunting was adopted by the IWC in 1982.
On World Whale Day, whale conservation organizations launch campaigns to raise awareness of the threats whales still face from environmental degradation, climate change, fishing gear entanglements and ship collisions. Social media platforms are used to share facts about whale conservation and encourage people to take action to help these animals. Fundraising events are organized to support research and protection programs for whales around the globe.
At whale-watching spots, tour companies often offer special tours on World Whale Day to promote responsible viewing of whales in the wild. Educational programs and children's activities teach them about the different whale species and the importance of conservation. Some aquariums and science museums organize special exhibits where visitors can learn more about whales through interactive displays and presentations.
All these efforts on World Whale Day help highlight the beauty and vulnerability of these massive marine mammals. Though whale populations have started to rebound thanks to conservation initiatives, continued support is needed to protect whales and their natural habitats. By raising awareness of whales on the third Sunday in February every year, everyone can work together to ensure a future for these inspiring animals in oceans around the world.
The third Sunday in February is World Whale Day. Here's our painting with oil pastels for this special day, and have a wonderful World Whale Day, cheers!
《Oil Pastel Drawing for "World Whale Day" 》
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