Southern Resident Killer Whales (Orcinus orca)
Southern Resident killer whales are an endangered population of killer whales inhabiting the waters of the Pacific Northwest. Their population averages at 74 individuals. These majestic marine mammals are highly social and very unique. They are specialized hunters, eating primarily fish, with their preferred type of fish being Chinook salmon, which unfortunately is also endangered. Consider what might happen to them if their food goes extinct.
Greatest threats to their Population
Food Scarcity
One of the primary threats to the Southern Resident killer whales is the scarcity of their primary food source, Chinook salmon. As salmon populations decline due to habitat loss and overfishing, the orcas struggle to find enough food to sustain themselves.
Pollution
The increasing pollution of their habitat, including persistent contaminants like PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and heavy metals, poses a grave danger to these whales. These toxins accumulate in their bodies and can result in a range of health issues, including compromised immune systems and reproductive challenges.
Noise Pollution
The Southern Resident killer whales are highly dependent on echolocation for hunting and communication, but the underwater noise generated by boat traffic and industrial activities disrupts their ability to navigate, find food, and communicate effectively.
The NMMF IN ACTION
Operation GRACE is actively involved in innovative conservation research to help protect the Southern Resident killer whales. They are working to build meaningful health records for each individual in the population, allowing for a better understanding of their overall health and helping collaborative efforts to address the threats they face.