Richard Branson - WildAid Whale Sharks - 2011

The beautiful whale shark can live as long as 70 years. However, due to their docile nature and large size, sometimes reaching more than 30 feet, they are easy to catch. Consequently whale sharks have been slaughtered for their fins and meat, their liver producing a cheap oil used to waterproof boats. The species is now considered vulnerable by the IUCN and various governments have banned commercial harvest. SandyHook SeaLife Foundation thanks Sir Richard for bringing attention to the plight of this migratory animal, the magnificent whale shark.