cetacean [noun]
Definition: An infraorder of aquatic mammals that includes whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Key characteristics are their fully aquatic lifestyle, streamlined body shape, often large size and exclusively carnivorous diet. They propel themselves through the water with powerful up-and-down movement of their tail which ends in a paddle-like fluke, using their flipper-shaped forelimbs to maneuver.
March 25, 2023
Aroha Maui Dolphin Gathering
You're invited to participate in this impactful art installation! Help us reach our goal of 1,000 origami Maui dolphins! Mail your origami Maui dolphins ASAP to ensure they arrive by March 23, 2023 (before the event). If you’re local, you can fold origami Maui dolphins at the event.
Click the button below for more information.
Entanglement Art Installation by cofounder Peggy Oki
This impactful large scale public art installation was created to visually represent the number of cetaceans (dolphins & whales) that die annually as a result of bycatch or entanglement in fishing gear. Bycatch/entanglement is the leading cause of death to cetaceans worldwide at a rate of over 300,000 annually. Please click the button below to learn more about this installation.
Public Speaking by
cofounder Peggy Oki
Peggy Oki is a tireless advocate for cetacean rights through her 'Origami Whales Project' and cetaceans.org. Peggy has a deep commitment to our planet that drives her to inspire people around the world to make a difference. Please click the button below to watch Peggy's Tedx Talk and learn about additional public speaking opportunities.
"Tails of Confinement" by cofounder Madison O'Connell
“Tails of Confinement” is a short documentary created by cofounder Madison O’Connell. This film follows her personal journey from a child who was taken to marine parks to see captive whales and dolphins, to a young woman who has grown up to realise the dark truth about the captive cetacean industry. We encourage you to watch this film and speak up on behalf of captive cetaceans!
Free Downloads
We want to help inspire you to take action for cetaceans. Writing letters can make a huge impact! You can download a free stationery pack filled with cards, letter sheets, orca cut-outs, an envelope, etc.
On our Resources page, you'll also find additional articles/references, plus recommendations for cetacean documentaries and books. Click the button below to check out all the options.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead