Interested in learning what you can do to help protect the endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales? The Salish Sea is home to many marine mammals, but most known as the home of the Southern Resident Community of orcas or killer whales (SRKWs). This unique population of orcas feeds on fish, preferably salmon, and lives in close family groups. The Southern Resident orcas are listed as endangered in both Canada and the United States. Only 75 orcas remain as of February 2021. One of the best ways to help these whales is to Be Whale Wise!
Are you also interested in winning 2023 season tickets to the Seattle Seahawks?! Stop by the Be Whale Wise – Soundwatch Booth (West 56), make the pledge, and be entered for a chance at 2023 Seahawks season tickets!
The Be Whale Wise initiative was started in 1993 to raise awareness of the effects of boating on SRKW. Did you know that a SRKW uses echolocation to find their food? Unfortunately, when a boat’s engine creates noise in the water it can disrupt the frequencies, as well as their communication between other whales. That is why state regulations require vessels to stay at least three football fields away from the SRKW and four football fields when behind or in the path of SRKW.
Want to learn more about Be Whale Wise right now? Visit their website: https://www.bewhalewise.org/
Header Photo: Soundwatch NMFS permit # 21114/18786-03
