23 July is World Whale and Dolphin Day, which raises awareness about the issues facing these marine mammals. Whales are crucial for maintaining a healthy ocean and combating climate change, as they help remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. There are other days dedicated to the protection of marine animals, such as World Whale Day on 19 February. Environmental organizations organize various events to defend these species, and in 2013, a demonstration promoting the closure of all dolphinariums took place in the European Union.
Whales and dolphins have become popular among the public due to their unique characteristics and intelligence. Orcas, for example, can live up to 30-60 years in the wild and 10-30 years in captivity. Dolphins, known as one of the smartest animals on the planet, have even been able to communicate and heal certain diseases in humans. It is important to learn more about these amazing creatures and how to contribute to their survival.
History and Significance
The holiday was established in 1986, coinciding with the day the International Whaling Commission enacted a ban on commercial whaling after decades of over-hunting. While the ban helped many whale populations recover from the brink of extinction, marine mammals face an array of modern challenges. World Whale and Dolphin Day serves as a global reminder to advocate for marine conservation, sustainable tourism, and cleaner oceans.
Threats to Marine Mammals
Despite past victories, whales and dolphins remain highly vulnerable to human activities in our oceans. Primary threats include:
Entanglement: Accidental trapping in commercial fishing gear and nets.
Vessel Strikes: Collisions with ships and large maritime vessels.
Habitat Degradation: Chemical pollution and marine debris in the water.
Ocean Noise: Human-made underwater noise that disrupts whale and dolphin communication.
Captivity: The capturing of wild whales and dolphins for circuses, theme parks, and marine aquariums.
How You Can Get Involved
Since Texas waters and the greater Gulf of Mexico are home to unique and vulnerable marine life (such as the endangered Rice's whale), there are several ways you can take action: [1]
Report Sightings or Strandings: If you spot an injured or stranded marine mammal on the beach, report it to Profepa (see below)
Support Conservation: Donate or volunteer with ocean advocacy groups like the Ocean Conservancy.
Reduce Plastic Use: Limit your single-use plastics to prevent harmful debris from reaching the ocean.
Reporting local dead, injured or stranded marine mammals
Report dead, injured, or stranded whales and dolphins to the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (PROFEPA), which coordinates the local Marine Mammal Stranding Network with universities like UABC.
Keep your distance and notify the authorities immediately through the following channels:
Local Emergency Line: Dial 911 to trigger an immediate dispatch.
PROFEPA Contact: Contact the Ensenada or Baja California regional offices (find details on the Gob.mx PROFEPA Site). Or (646) 176 5000 or (646) 172 4099
RABEN (Entangled Whales): For whales tangled in fishing gear, contact the Whale Entangled Response Network directly via WhatsApp at +52 322-150-0850.
Port Authority: Contact the local Capitanía de Puerto or local Civil Protection (Protección Civil).
What to do while waiting:
Do not touch or push the animal back into the water.
Keep a safe distance (at least 240 meters for whales, 50 meters for dolphins).
Take photos/videos of the animal’s tail, dorsal fin, and any injuries to help the rescue team identify the species.