Project Jonah facts for kids
Project Jonah is a special group in New Zealand that works to protect and help ocean animals like whales, dolphins, and seals. It was started in 1974 by a dedicated person named Joan McIntyre.
This organization focuses on a few key things to keep marine mammals safe and healthy. They are often involved in exciting rescue missions, speak up for these animals, and make sure rules and laws designed to protect them are followed.
Helping Stranded Whales
One of Project Jonah's most important jobs is rescuing whales and other marine mammals that get stranded on beaches. New Zealand has many incidents where whales get stuck on the shore. When this happens, the Department of Conservation is responsible for helping these animals, and Project Jonah often works closely with them. They have a lot of experience and trained volunteers who know how to help these large animals get back into the ocean safely.
Protecting Ocean Animals with Laws
Project Jonah has also played a big part in creating important laws to protect marine mammals. For example, they strongly encouraged the government to create the Marine Mammals Protection Act 1978. This law, passed in 1978, helps make sure that whales, dolphins, and seals are protected in New Zealand waters. It covers things like preventing harm to these animals and managing how people interact with them.
Images for kids
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Project Jonah's logo, showing a whale tail.
