September 12: What Happened To Dolphins on This Day In History

World Dolphin Day , first celebrated in 2022, emerged as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to protect dolphins and other sea mammals. Established by Sea Shepherd Global, the day serves to honor the lives of dolphins and raise awareness about their endangered status. The catalyst for this day was the shocking event of September 12, 2021, when over 1,400 dolphins were killed in the Faroe Islands as part of an ancient tradition called the "grind."

This brutal practice, which targets dolphins and other cetaceans (whales, porpoises), has placed the Faroe Islands under intense global scrutiny. While the local government has introduced provisional limits on the number of dolphins killed, critics argue that these limits are far too lenient and do little to curb the cruelty. Many believe the grind is an outdated ritual that should be banned completely.


World Dolphin Day is more than just a day of remembrance—it’s a platform to educate the world about the threats dolphins face due to human activity, including hunting, habitat destruction, and pollution. Though distinct from National Dolphin Day, which is celebrated in the U.S. each April, World Dolphin Day brings international attention to the plight of these majestic creatures.

Dolphins: The Marvels of the Sea

On this day, it’s important to also celebrate the fascinating qualities of dolphins. Here are some incredible facts:

Sleep with One Eye Open: Dolphins only sleep with half of their brains, a phenomenon called “unihemispheric slow-wave sleep.” This allows them to rest while staying alert to their surroundings, an essential skill for survival.

Speedy Swimmers : Dolphins can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour, especially when fleeing danger.

Breathing Masters: As mammals, dolphins need to come up for air, but they can hold their breath underwater for 8-10 minutes, and some species can last up to 15 minutes.

Intelligent and Social: Dolphins live in close-knit pods, sometimes numbering in the thousands. They also exhibit strong family bonds, with calves staying with their mothers for up to seven years—a rarity in the animal world.


World Dolphin Day encourages everyone to take a moment to appreciate these intelligent creatures and spread awareness about their protection. Whether through learning, sharing, or supporting conservation efforts, every action counts in preserving their future.