World Orca Day is an annual celebration that is marked in several countries around the world on July 14. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about orcas, also known as killer whales, and promoting their protection and conservation. The orca is a toothed whale that is the largest member of the oceanic dolphin family. It is the only extant species in the genus Orcinus. Orcas are recognisable by their black-and-white patterned body. A cosmopolitan species, they are found in diverse marine environments, from Arctic to Antarctic regions to tropical seas. On World Orca Day 2024, know the history and significance of the observance dedicated to raising awareness about orcas. Killer Whale Imitates Human Speech in France Aquarium! 

As the top predator in the ocean, these iconic animals are also known as a ‘keystone’ species as they play a vital role in marine ecosystems. They are also known as an ‘indicator’ species, or a species that can tell us a lot about the health and well-being of an ecosystem. Lolita the Killer Whale of Miami Seaquarium To Be Finally Free After 50 Years in Captivity. 

World Orca Day 2024 Date

World Orca Day 2024 will be celebrated on Sunday, July 14.

World Orca Day History

Orca are one of the most widely distributed species of cetaceans which include whales, dolphins and porpoises, as they are found from the ice edges to the tropics, of both hemispheres. World Orca Day was launched by Dr Ingrid N. Visser on the November 8, 2013, at the World Whale Conference, in Boston USA. World Orca Day was celebrated for the first time on July 14, 2014 and have been observed ever since.

Dr Visser is a cetologist who researches orca in New Zealand waters through the Orca Research Trust, which she founded in 1998. World Orca Day was launched in collaboration with the Orca Research Trust while other orca-centric, cetacean and ocean focused organisations joined in the event. The support for World Orca Day continues to grow and by 2020 there were more than 40 NGOs and other bodies endorsing and promoting the event.

World Orca Day Significance

World Orca Day is an important annual event that aims to raise awareness of orca in the wild and the threats they face. The day aims to increase protection for the species from the numerous threats they face, including pollution, habitat degradation, and depletion of prey due to overfishing. This international day also promotes research and education about orcas, their behavior, and their social structures. It encourages people to learn more about these fascinating creatures and the challenges they face.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 13, 2024 10:48 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).