Humpback whale mother and calf, Tonga

© Chase Dekker/Minden Picture

Protecting the giants of the sea. Happy World Whale Day!

On the third Sunday of February, World Whale Day highlights the beauty of whales and the challenges they face. This year, on February 16, we honour these majestic creatures, like the humpback whale pictured in today's image, known for its enchanting songs and dramatic breaches. World Whale Day began in 1980 in Maui, Hawaii, led by Greg Kauffman of the Pacific Whale Foundation, to protect humpbacks from extinction. Today, it urges global action on threats like ocean pollution, climate change and habitat loss.

Humpbacks can grow up to 16 metres long and weigh as much as 36,287 kilograms. They travel more than 16,000 kilometres annually, feeding in polar waters and breeding in warmer seas. Though their numbers have partially recovered, they still face challenges like fishing gear entanglement and ship collisions. This World Whale Day let's work to protect these ocean giants and preserve their habitats for future generations.