World Whale Day

Today is World Whale Day. This holiday is celebrated around the world. This holiday was established in 1986, when the International Whaling Commission banned whale hunting, after 200 years of ruthless extermination. The ban is still in effect today and it means that the worldwide hunt for whales, as well as trade in whale meat is forbidden. However, this date is considered as a day to protect not only whales, but all marine mammals. Every year on this day, various environmental groups hold rally in defense of whales and other marine mammals. This day has particular importance for Russia, as dozens of species of whales, dolphins and seals live in the seas of our country. Many of them are endangered and listed in the Red Book of the Russian Federation and the International Union for Conservation of Nature.