Encounter 24 • 8-May, 2025 • Bigg's Killer Whales - T65B + T124Ds Our email subscribers are the first to receive our detailed, full encounter reports, complete with photos. If you want to be the first to get updates directly from us, sign up for our email list at this link: https://www.whaleresearch.com/signup Whales had been found in Haro Strait and we arrived on scene about a mile north of the Beaumont Shoal buoy. The encounter started at 1249. The whales were milling and socializing and not really going anywhere. The whales were non-directional while up and then would go down for fairly long dives. The Ts were very vocal on the hydrophones put down by whale watch boats. By about 1330, the whales had split into two groups with the T65Bs and T124D1 in one group still milling in the same area while T124D and her two youngest offspring split off about a quarter mile to the southwest. We ended the encounter at 1341 with the T65Bs and T124D1 just a little west from where the encounter began. Check out the encounter and more photos on our interactive map at the link below. This map is best viewed on a desktop computer. https://www.whaleresearch.com/encounters #whaleresearch #orcas #killerwhales #biggskillerwhales #salishseaorcas #centerforwhaleresearch #pacificnorthwest (fb)

Today is #EndangeredSpeciesDay. In November 2005, NOAA Fisheries designated the Southern Resident killer whales endangered under the Endangered Species Act. Being listed as an endangered species is important because it ensures that legal protections and conservation efforts are implemented to protect the at-risk population. With only 73 residents left, it is vital for us to continue to advocate for the Southern Resident killer whales. New calves, like J62, remind us of the potential for this population of killer whales. As a young female, J62's health and development into adulthood are crucial for the future of her matriline. However, to ensure the recovery of this population, we must continue taking action to protect the whales. They face numerous challenges, including a dwindling food source of chinook salmon, as well as threats from toxic pollutants and disturbances caused by vessel traffic noise. Together, we can learn the facts, advocate for their protection, and educate others to support their future. Taking action is essential for the survival of the Southern Resident killer whales. Visit our "Take Action" page at whaleresearch.com for ways to help protect the Southern Resident killer whales. #EndangeredSpeciesDay #southernresidentkillerwhales #endangeredspecies #whaleresearch (fb)