Today is International Whale Shark Day. This anniversary aims to raise awareness of the endangered status of this animal. Hence, we would like to contribute to spread a word about them.

As much as we love adventures, we love the animals and wildlife that make those travels unforgettable. All wildlife is precious and everyone, as human being and as traveller, should help protect and respect it.

The Whale Shark

Not really sure what this animal is? The whale shark is indeed a shark species. It’s called whale because of its enormous dimensions: it can reach more than 10 metres and can weight more than 20 tons!

There is no need to worry about it, though, because this giant is harmless and doesn’t represent a threat to people. Indeed, like a whale, this marine giant eats mainly plankton. So it’s not a good candidate to be the bad guy of a Hollywood movie, but nonetheless it is now in danger.

The whale shark lives in tropical and warm waters around the world. It usually swims in shallow waters, which puts the whale shark even more at risk of illegal fishing.

Why adventure is good for the whale shark

Despite its gentle nature, this animal is hunted for its valuable fins and meat. The IUCN, International Union for Conservation of Nature, has inserted it in the list of animals at risk of extinction. Nevertheless, if you are an adventure seeker who loves animals, you have reason to be proud.

Because the whale shark is a good touristic attraction, many countries have recognized that this animal is more valuable alive than dead. Also for this reason, many countries have signed up to the CMS, the Convention for the Conversation of Migratory Species, in order to help the whale shark survive.

For more information on how to respect nature during your adventure travels, you can also read our blog about ethical animal tourism.

Learn more about the Whale Shark here.