Marine Wildlife and Animal Welfare advocacy group Earth Island Institute Asia-Pacific announced in a press release the publication of “Wady’s Epic Adventure to Save Home,” a children’s book aimed at raising awareness on the region’s endangered Irrawaddy dolphins.
The book chronicles the journey of Wady, a courageous and tenacious Irrawaddy dolphin, as he struggles to rescue his home and community from extinction. It was written by Karl Ramirez, a singer-songwriter and environmental campaigner. Young readers will discover the significance of conserving marine life and the environment via Wady’s narrative.
The launch event took place on April 21, at the Saltimbocca Restaurant in Bacolod City. Local media and distinguished guests participated in the book launch. This is a unique opportunity to shed light on the challenges faced by Irrawaddy dolphins and to start important conversations about conservation efforts in the region.
The Irrawaddy dolphins (Orcaella brevirostris) subpopulations in the Iloilo and Guimaras straits are listed as “Critically Endangered” in the International Union for the Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species (IUCN Red List). According to marine population assessments undertaken by the University of St. La Salle in Bacolod, there are only around 10 to 13 individual dolphins left. These figures are a long cry from the 21 individual dolphins identified by scientists in 2007.
“We are excited to share Wady’s story with children and families across the region,” said Earth Island Institute Regional Director Trixie Concepcion.
“This book is not only entertaining, but it also carries a powerful message about the importance of protecting our environment and the creatures that call it home,” Concepcion added.
Those interested to purchase copies of “Wady’s Epic Adventure to Save Home” may contact Earth Island Institute Philippines Facebook page.*
