Orcas off B.C. coast face ‘high probability of extinction’ if conditions don’t change: report
A recent report from a coalition of over 30 experts has shed light on the dire situation facing the endangered population of killer whales off the coast of British Columbia and Washington state. According to the report released by the David Suzuki Foundation and Raincoast Conservation Foundation, the southern resident killer whales are not showing any signs of recovery under current conditions. The experts stress that urgent and robust actions are needed to prevent the extinction of these iconic creatures.
Lance Barrett-Lennard, a cetacean scientist with the Raincoast foundation, emphasized that there is a critical need for stronger measures to save the genetically distinct southern resident killer whales. Despite efforts by both Canada and the United States since 2019, the report warns that the whales are facing a high probability of extinction if significant changes are not implemented.
The report, which is the result of a workshop held in Vancouver in March, outlines 26 science-based recommendations to help save the southern resident killer whales. These recommendations include limiting fisheries to ensure the whales have access to their main prey, chinook salmon, as well as eliminating toxic chemicals in their food chain and adopting enforceable underwater noise standards.
One of the key challenges highlighted in the report is the limited access to prey, particularly chinook salmon, which remains a primary constraint on the recovery of the whales. Current government initiatives in both Canada and the United States are deemed insufficient to address this critical issue.
Jeffery Young, a senior science and policy analyst with the David Suzuki Foundation, expressed concerns about potential distractions for the federal government, such as new pipelines or increased shipping, which could harm the orcas. He emphasized the need for the government to prioritize the recovery of the southern resident killer whales.
The report also calls for expanding slowdown zones for ships and prohibiting various ship activities in the whales’ habitat to reduce disturbances. Additionally, it recommends closing fisheries when the whales’ prey needs are not met and giving the orcas priority access to early-season chinook in the Fraser River.
Barrett-Lennard highlighted the cultural significance of the southern resident killer whales for Indigenous Peoples in the region, underscoring the importance of preserving these majestic creatures. He emphasized that losing the whales would be a tragedy, given their unique characteristics and social bonds.
In response to the report, authorities from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and Transport Canada have acknowledged the recommendations and highlighted existing government initiatives aimed at protecting endangered whales, including the southern resident killer whales. These initiatives include protection measures, expanded research, ongoing monitoring, and actions to address key threats.
Overall, the report serves as a wake-up call for the urgent need to take concrete actions to save the southern resident killer whales from extinction. It is crucial for governments, conservation organizations, and the public to come together to implement the recommended measures and ensure the long-term survival of these iconic marine species.
