Man holds pet dog in aftermath of Hurricane Otto

Animal Awareness Days

Sentience

Here at World Animal Protection India, we love any excuse to celebrate animals. Below we have compiled a list of official and unofficial animal awareness days observed in India and around the world.

January animal awareness days

Bird Day (US) - January 5
Bird Day, or The Big Garden Birdwatch (UK) - last weekend in January
Zebra Day - 31 January

February animal awareness days

World Pangolin Day - third Saturday of February
World Whale Day - third Sunday of February
World Bonobo Day - February 14
World Hippopotamus Day - February 15
International Polar Bear Day - February 27

March animal awareness days

World Wildlife Day - March 3
Buzzards Day - March 15
National Panda Day - March 16
World Sparrow Day - March 20
World Frog Day - March 20
International Seal Day - March 22
World Bear Day - March 23
Manatee Appreciation Day - last Wednesday in March

April animal awareness days

World Aquatic Animal Day - April 3
World Stray Animals Day - April 4
International Beaver Day - April 7
Bat Appreciation Day - April 17
International Pallas's Cat Day - April 23
World Tapir Day - April 27
International Hyena Day - April 27
World Vet Day - last Saturday in April

May animal awareness days

World Tuna Day - May 2
International Leopard Day - May 3
Wild Koala Day - May 3
Bird Day (US) - May 4
World Donkey Day - May 8
World Migratory Bird Day - second weekend of May
Endangered Species Day - third Friday of May
World Bee Day - May 20
World Fish Migration Day - May 22/October 24
World Turtle Day - May 23
World Otter Day - May 25
World Parrot Day - May 31

June animal awareness days

World Oceans Day - June 8
International Lynx Day - June 11
National Cougar Day - June 12
World Sea Turtle Day - June 16
World Croc Day - June 17
World Giraffe Day - June 21
World Camel Day - June 22

July animal awareness days

Shark Awareness Day - July 14
World Chimpanzee Day - July 14
World Orca Day - July 14
World Snake Day - July 16
International Tiger Day - July 29

August animal awareness days

International Clouded Leopard Day - August 4
International Moon Bear Day - August 8
World Lion Day - August 10
World Elephant Day - August 12
World Hirola Day - August 12
International Wolf Day - August 13
National Honey Bee Day - August 15
World Orangutan Day - August 19
World African Wild Dog Day - August 26
International Whale Shark Day - August 30

September animal awareness days

International Vulture Awareness Day - first Saturday of September
International Primate Day - September 1
Japan Dolphin Day - September 1
World Manta Day - September 17
International Red Panda Day - third Saturday of September
International Tamarin Day - September 22
World Rhino Day - September 22
World Gorilla Day - September 24
World Cassowary Day - September 26
World Rabies Day - September 28

October animal awareness days

World Vegetarian Day - October 1
World Farmed Animals Day - October 2
World Animal Day - October 4
International Migratory Bird Day (Mexico, Central and South America, Caribbean) - second Saturday in October
International Sawfish Day - October 17
World Okapi Day - October 18
International Sloth Day - October 20
National Reptile Awareness Day - October 21
International Wombat Day - October 22
International Snow Leopard Day - October 23
Freshwater Dolphin Day - October 24
International Gibbon Day - October 24
World Fish Migration Day - October 24/May 22
World Lemur Day - last Friday of October

November animal awareness days

National Bison Day - first Saturday in November
World Vegan Day - November 1
World Anteater Day - November 19
World Fisheries Day - November 21
International Jaguar Day - November 29

December animal awareness days

International Cheetah Day - December 4
Wildlife Conservation Day - December 4
International Animal Rights Day - December 10
Monkey Day - December 14

 

 

FAQs for animal awareness days in India

What are animal awareness days?

Animal awareness days are special dates dedicated to raising awareness about animal welfare and inspiring people to take action for the protection of animals. 

How can I celebrate an animal awareness day in India?

There are countless ways to take part in an animal awareness days! You can support global animal charities like World Animal Protection India by making a one-time donation, setting up a monthly contribution, or even donating directly from your salary. Hosting a community event, school fundraiser, or awareness campaign is another impactful way to get involved. You might also consider leaving a gift in your will to support World Animal Protection for generations to come.

What happens on global animal days?

On international animal awareness days, individuals and organizations come together to raise awareness about vital animal welfare issues — from the treatment of farm animals to the ending of elephant rides for entertainment. Many charities host special campaigns, online events, and educational programs to spread awareness and inspire change. You can learn more about World Animal Protection India's campaigns here

How can I support animal awareness campaigns in India?

There are many ways to take action! You can sign petitions, such as our End Elephant Ride Petition, sign a pledge to Eat Less Meat, as well as donate or share our campaigns on social media. You could even volunteer at a local animal rescue or foster an animal in need. Every small action can make a big difference to an animals life.

Who starts animal awareness days?

Animal awareness days are created by passionate individuals, animal welfare organisations, government bodies, and global conservation groups. 

Can I create my own animal awareness day?

Absolutely! If your favourite animal doesn’t already have a special day, you can start one in your community or online. Use social media to spread awareness, collaborate with NGOs, and encourage others to join your cause.

These days are perfect opportunities to take action for animals and protect India’s incredible biodiversity.

Join Our Mission to Protect India’s Animals

Together, we can make India a kinder and safer place for all living beings. Whether you choose to donate, volunteer, or simply spread awareness, every action matters.

Support World Animal Protection India and lend your voice to those who cannot speak for themselves.

Like animals? Read our rescue stories below: