Do you know that whale sharks are sharks, not whales? But don't panic, they are graceful filter feeders, like baleen whales. They have no history of attacking humans. On the contrary, humans are big threats to them. 

International Whale Shark Day is celebrated on August 30 every year, aiming to call public attention to this endangered species. Whale sharks like to move on the surface of the sea, so they are easily caught by people for their meat, fins and oil. In addition, accidental injuries caused by boat collisions and discarded fishing nets have a great impact on whale sharks.

Here are some interesting facts about this gentle giant: 

For more:

International Orangutan Day: Protect our close relatives

What you don't know about painted wolves

(All images via CFP, designed by CGTN's Liu Shaozhen.)

(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at nature@cgtn.com.)