National Shamu the Whale Day is a holiday observed annually on the 26th of September to honor one of the most famous whales in the world. This holiday doesn’t just honor this particular whale but is designed to raise awareness about orca whales and the challenges they currently face.

There are three main threats to the continued existence of orca whales: lack of Chinook salmon, disturbance from vessels, and ocean pollution. That is why they are now listed as endangered and why it’s important for people to do what they can to help them. People can start by observing this holiday when it comes around every year.

The History of National Shamu the Whale Day

This holiday was created when the first surviving baby Shamu born in captivity was born on September 26, 1985. It has been celebrated as a holiday ever since and as a day to raise public knowledge about orca whales and the challenges they face.

Facts About Orcas

We wanted to explore some facts about orcas, so that’s what we’ve done with our list below. We hope everyone enjoys what we have put together for this holiday.

• The largest orca ever recorded was 32 feet long and weighed 22,000 pounds.
• Orcas are apex predators.
• There is no record of an orca ever killing a human in the wild.
• Wild orcas have attacked boats, however.
• A female orca can give birth to one offspring at a time every 3-10 years.

Observing National Shamu the Whale Day

This holiday can be observed by taking the time to learn more about Shamu as well as more about orca whales. It’s also a good day to learn more about what can be done to protect these whales now and in the future. On social media, people should use the hashtag #ShamuTheWhaleDay to spread the word about this holiday as well.