Date
Saturday
Feb

February 1-28

Humpback Whale Awareness Month

Dive into Humpback Whale Awareness Month and learn about these majestic creatures - their songs, behaviors, and conservation efforts!

Yearly Date
February 1
Type
Month
Category
Animal

Introduction

Get ready to dive into Humpback Whale Awareness Month on February 1, and discover the amazing world of these gentle giants of the sea. This month-long celebration was established in 1988 by the American Cetacean Society to raise awareness about humpback whales and their conservation. Did you know that humpback whales are known for their spectacular acrobatic displays, such as breaching and slapping their fins on the water? They also have a unique pattern of black and white markings on their flukes (tails) which helps researchers identify individual whales. So join in on this special month and learn more about these majestic creatures!

Humpback Whale Awareness Month Timeline

1950
Threatened Status
By the mid-20th century, commercial whaling had significantly reduced the humpback whale population, prompting a need for conservation efforts.
1966
Whaling Moratorium
The International Whaling Commission (IWC) imposed a moratorium on commercial hunting of humpback whales to prevent their extinction.
1970
Endangered Species Act
Humpback whales were listed as an endangered species under the U.S. Endangered Species Conservation Act, giving them further protection.
1988
Humpback Whale Awareness Month
The American Cetacean Society established February as Humpback Whale Awareness Month to increase public knowledge and appreciation for these marine mammals.
2016
Conservation Success
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced that nine of the 14 populations of humpback whales had recovered sufficiently to be removed from the endangered species list.
2022
Ongoing Efforts
Conservation efforts continue today, with research and policies aimed at protecting and understanding humpback whales and their habitat.

How to Celebrate Humpback Whale Awareness Month

1

Attend a whale watching tour

Take part in a whale watching tour to see these majestic creatures up close and learn more about their behaviors and habitats.

2

Host a beach clean-up day

Organize a beach clean-up day with friends and family to help protect the ocean and its inhabitants, including humpback whales.

3

Educate others on humpback whales

Spread awareness by organizing a presentation or seminar on humpback whales at your local community center or school.

4

Create art inspired by humpback whales

Express your love for humpback whales through art by creating paintings, sculptures, or other forms of artwork that showcase these incredible creatures.

5

Support conservation efforts

Donate to organizations that work towards protecting humpback whales and their habitats, or volunteer your time to assist with conservation efforts.

Why We Love Humpback Whale Awareness Month

A

Humpback whales are majestic creatures

Humpback whales are one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring species on the planet. These gentle giants can reach lengths of up to 52 feet, making them one of the largest animals on Earth. They also have a unique appearance with their long pectoral fins and distinct black and white coloration.

B

It's a chance to learn more about these creatures

Humpback Whale Awareness Month provides an opportunity for people to learn more about these incredible animals and their behaviors. From how they communicate to their migration patterns, there is always something new to discover about humpback whales.

C

It raises awareness for conservation efforts

Raising awareness for humpback whale conservation is crucial in protecting these amazing creatures for future generations. Humpback Whale Awareness Month brings attention to threats such as pollution and commercial fishing that endanger humpback whales and their habitats, and encourages individuals to take action in preserving their existence.

Humpback Whale Awareness Month Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Jan 31
Tuesday
2024
Jan 31
Wednesday
2025
Jan 31
Friday
2026
Jan 31
Saturday
2027
Jan 31
Sunday