National Shamu the Whale Day – September 26, 2022, history significance why we celebrate
Shamu the Whale Day comes up every year on September 26. Also known as National Shamu the Whale Day, this holiday celebrates the heroics and splendor of remarkable orcas. The original Shamu was honored in the late 1960s. That same name has been passed down many generations, through SeaWorld shows. It has since become a day to appreciate the world of orcas.
History of Shamu the Whale Day
Highly intelligent, trainable and striking in their appearance, orcas are killer whales that have been kept in captivity for purposes of breeding as well as entertainment for humans. With their black and white features, orcas are distinctive and large, measuring up to 32 feet long for males and weighing more than 8 tons.
The first female killer whale who was a performer at San Diego’s SeaWorld in the mid 1960s, Shamu was a beloved orca whale. She lived in captivity for just six years until she died in 1971. Shamu was so popular, however, that SeaWorld trademarked the name and many different orcas have performed under this name at the company’s parks.
The first baby Shamu to survive after being born in captivity was given the name “Kalina”. She was born on September 26, 1985, which is the reason for the celebration of National Shamu Day.
Because of questionable practices and treatment of the whales, as well as backlash regarding incidents involving attacks on humans, SeaWorld eventually decided to phase out their orca program, as have many other aquariums across the world.
The idea of Shamu and her orca friends continues to bring up warm feelings at how intelligent and magnificent these creatures are. National Shamu the Whale Day is meant to raise awareness about the plight of these spectacular whales and the beauty they offer to the natural world.
SHAMU THE WHALE DAY TIMELINE
October 1965
Shamu is Captured
The killer whale named Shamu is captured.
August 16, 1971
Shamu Dies
Shamu dies four months after an accident during a performance.
September 26, 1985
Surviving Baby Shamu
The first surviving baby Shamu is introduced.
March 2016
SeaWorld Announces End to Orca Breeding
SeaWorld promises to end all orca capture and breeding.
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5 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT ORCAS
Orcas are also known as killer whales
Orcas are largely known as killer whales, because of their prowess.
Orcas live in every ocean
In all oceans of the world, orcas can be found.
They don’t constitute a threat to humans
In their natural habitats, killer whales will not attack a human fatally.
Orcas don’t have a sense of smell
They instead depend on their sight and hearing.
They’re intelligent and playful
There are several accounts of orcas displaying intelligent traits.
WHY WE LOVE SHAMU THE WHALE DAY
There’s more awareness about orcas
On Shamu the Whale Day, we learn more about the life of orcas. We also learn more ways to help keep them safe.
We can appreciate the beauty of orcas
On this holiday, we can watch as many documentaries on orcas as possible. We can enjoy the beauty and splendor of their world.
We can help keep orcas safe
We can join groups that are concerned about orcas’ wellbeing. Also, we can donate to this cause.
