Podcasts about southern resident orcas

Orca mourns second calf since 2018 in a devastating report that J35 was seen floating her dead calf on January 1st, 2025. In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses the tragic story of J35, a Southern Resident Orca, who lost her second calf, J61, shortly after its birth. The episode highlights several critical factors contributing to the high mortality rate of orca calves in this endangered population, which currently numbers only 73 individuals. Reasons for Calf Mortality: Food Scarcity: The primary prey of the Southern Resident Orcas, Chinook salmon, is in decline. The orcas rely exclusively on this species for sustenance, and with only a 20% survival rate for calves, the lack of adequate food supply is a significant concern. The orcas need a sufficient quantity of Chinook salmon to support their growth and health, especially during the early stages of life. Chemical Contamination: Orcas are among the most contaminated marine mammals due to bioaccumulation of toxins such as PCBs and DDT. These chemicals can impair reproductive and immune functions, potentially affecting the health of calves from birth. The presence of these toxins in the environment may contribute to the inability of calves to survive past their first year. Environmental Disturbances: Factors such as vessel noise and pollution disrupt the orcas' habitat, further complicating their survival. Increased shipping traffic and climate change exacerbate these issues, leading to a more challenging environment for the orcas. Reproductive Challenges: The Southern Resident Orcas are a long-lived species that take time to reach sexual maturity. With a low calf survival rate, the population struggles to maintain its numbers, especially as older individuals begin to pass away. The episode emphasizes the urgent need for conservation efforts, including habitat restoration and pollution control, to improve the chances of survival for orca calves and the overall health of the Southern Resident Orca population. Center For Whale Research: https://www.whaleresearch.com/ Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.   Do you want to join my Ocean Community? Sign Up for Updates on the process: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp   Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter   Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Orcas playing with their food is not a new behavior; however, wearing salmon on their heads is not usual.  In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses a fascinating phenomenon involving orcas wearing salmon as hats. A recent photograph captured an orca in Puget Sound sporting a salmon on its head, reminiscent of similar behaviors observed in the 1980s when orcas from the southern resident population also donned salmon hats. Lewin explores the potential reasons behind this behavior, suggesting it could be a playful act, a celebration of a successful hunt, or simply a sign of the orca's contentment due to an abundance of food, particularly during the chum salmon run. He emphasizes that orcas, known for their intelligence and emotional depth, exhibit unique personalities and behaviors, which can vary widely among individuals. The episode highlights the importance of studying these behaviors to better understand orcas and marine mammals in general. Lewin encourages listeners to foster curiosity about ocean life and to engage with ongoing research efforts aimed at uncovering the mysteries of these remarkable animals. He invites listeners to share their questions about the ocean, promoting a dialogue about marine conservation and the intriguing behaviors of orcas. Link to article: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/no-orcas-probably-arent-reviving-the-dead-salmon-hat-trend-despite-a-viral-photo-experts-say-heres-why-180985559/ Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.   Do you want to join my Ocean Community? Sign Up for Updates on the process: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp   Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter   Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube    

In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses the fascinating behavior of orcas, particularly their recent predation on whale sharks, the largest fish in the ocean. Orcas, known as apex predators, have been observed hunting whale sharks in the Gulf of California. This behavior was documented in a new study published in the journal Frontiers of Marine Science, which includes video footage and images of the attacks. The orcas target the whale sharks by striking their underbelly and grabbing their pectoral fins, aiming for the nutrient-rich liver, similar to their hunting strategies for great white sharks. The study tracked four predation events over six years, highlighting a male orca named Moctezuma, who participated in three of these events alongside females from the same pod. This suggests that the orcas are learning and refining their hunting techniques over time. Lewin emphasizes the importance of understanding this new predation behavior, as it indicates that whale sharks have a formidable predator. He also stresses the need for conservation efforts to protect whale sharks, which face threats from climate change, pollution, and fishing activities. The episode concludes with a call for further research and discussion on the implications of orcas hunting whale sharks and the overall health of marine ecosystems. Link to article: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/marine-science/articles/10.3389/fmars.2024.1448254/full#supplementary-material Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.   Do you want to join my Ocean Community? Sign Up for Updates on the process: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp   Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter   Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

In this episode of the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses the significant return of the Southern Resident orca population, specifically L-Pod, to Penn Cove, Washington, after more than 50 years. This return is particularly poignant given the tragic history of the area, where in the 1970s, a brutal capture event took place. During this event, 80 orcas were corralled using bombs and boats, resulting in the deaths of five orcas and the capture of many others, including Tokite, also known as Lolita, who spent 50 years in captivity before passing away in 2023. The emotional response from the local community and researchers upon witnessing the orcas return to Penn Cove was captured in videos, marking a full-circle moment for a population that has faced significant trauma. While the reasons for their return remain unclear—whether it was due to food availability or exploration—the event symbolizes hope for the future of the critically endangered Southern Resident orcas, whose numbers have dwindled from around 150 individuals to just 71-73 today. Lewin emphasizes the importance of protecting the orcas' habitat and food sources, particularly their preferred prey, salmon, which has been declining due to various environmental factors. The episode highlights the resilience of these intelligent creatures and the joy of their return, serving as a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to ensure their survival and recovery. Link to article: https://www.greenmatters.com/news/penn-cove-orca-capture U of Washington and Orcas: https://marinebiology.uw.edu/2022/10/13/from-detection-to-protection-orca-research-and-conservation/ Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.   Do you want to join my Ocean Community? Sign Up for Updates on the process: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp   Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter   Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Andrew Lewin discusses the urgent need to slow down and enforce more slowdowns of boats along the Atlantic coast after a Northern Atlantic Right whale calf was struck by a ship. The devastating news of a North Atlantic right whale calf being struck by a ship and expected to die highlights the critical situation faced by these endangered whales. With only 356 individuals remaining, action must be taken to protect them. Tune in to learn more about the importance of speaking up for the ocean and taking steps to ensure its preservation. Link to article: https://newjerseymonitor.com/2023/10/19/speeding-ships-threaten-extinction-of-north-atlantic-right-whales-study-warns/ Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter   Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc  In the episode, it was mentioned that Puget Sound in Washington had undergone a temporary closure or slowdown to safeguard the Southern Resident Orca populations. The episode also introduced a woman affiliated with a marine transportation organization who was part of an effort to protect these orcas by examining the impact of speed. The organization proposed a voluntary slowdown project in Puget Sound, specifically in areas frequented by the orcas, for a duration of eight weeks. The project received widespread support and was successfully implemented. The results of this project are expected to be available later in the summer. The episode further discusses the urgent need for more boat slowdowns along the Atlantic coast to protect the critically endangered North Atlantic right whales. With only 356 individuals remaining, immediate action is crucial to prevent further harm to this species. The episode highlights a recent incident where a North Atlantic right whale calf was struck by a ship, emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the need for protective measures. One of the main reasons why North Atlantic right whales are particularly vulnerable to ship strikes is their slower swimming speed. Additionally, their tendency to stay just below the water's surface makes it challenging for boats to detect them. The episode explains that these whales lack a dorsal fin, further complicating their visibility. Therefore, enforcing boat slowdowns is essential to reduce the risk of collisions with these endangered animals. The episode also emphasizes the importance of slow zones, designated areas where boats are required to reduce their speed, in protecting North Atlantic right whales. However, it notes that these slow zones need to be regularly updated to align with the whales' current migration and feeding patterns. Climate change has caused shifts in the whales' routes, potentially due to changes in ocean currents and temperature. Consequently, adjusting the slow zones accordingly is crucial to ensure effective protection for the whales. Furthermore, the episode highlights a study conducted by Oceana, an ocean conservation advocacy group, which revealed a significant lack of compliance with mandatory slowdowns in areas correlated to whale migration and feeding patterns. The study found that 84% of boats over 65 feet long and 82% of boats in areas with temporary slowdowns were exceeding the speed limits. This lack of adherence underscores the need for improved communication and engagement with boaters to raise awareness about the importance of slowdowns and the reasons behind them. In conclusion, the episode underscores the urgent need for more boat slowdowns along the Atlantic coast to protect the critically endangered North Atlantic right whales. The small population size of these whales and their susceptibility to ship strikes necessitate immediate action. Updating and enforcing slow zones, as well as improving communication with boaters, are essential steps in safeguarding the survival of this critically endangered species. The survival of whales is being impacted by closures of specific areas for crabbing, shrimping, and lobstering. These closures are a response to the changing migration patterns of whales caused by ocean warming and climate changes. Monitoring the survivability of whales passing through these areas is crucial, and the closures aim to protect their migration patterns. However, enforcing these closures and implementing regulations is a challenging task that requires time to take effect. Conservationists remain hopeful that these measures will effectively protect the whales, but their true effectiveness is yet to be determined.  

Happy Wednesday! Donald Trump is appealing a decision to have his name removed from the Maine primary ballot. A Chinese exchange student was a victim of Cyber Kidnapping in Utah. A Southern Resident Orca has been born! https://forms.gle/Bf6aPVTbEqmo4QoS6 NEWSLETTER ⬅️ What's Trending: https://amzn.to/4aKlbyw Head to TheMorningShowPodcast.com for EVERYTHING we talk about. AG1 Deal: DrinkAG1.com/cma Seattle Gummy Company - code: CMA for 20% off https://seattlegummy.com/?ref=802 QUICK LINKS TO WATCH US LIVE, SUBSCRIBE TO NEWSLETTER, FOLLOW OUR SOCIALS HERE: https://www.flowcode.com/page/carlamarieandanthony Follow Carla Marie on Instagram Follow Anthony on InstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How can a relationship with one animal open the door to the depths of humanity? In this episode, returning guest Kurt Russo shares how he came to see the world through Tokitae, a Southern Resident Orca held captive in the Miami Seaquarium for decades. As he mourns Tokitae's recent death, Kurt reflects on the ways nature gives us signs of the greater mysteries of life. This conversation is equally rooted in the material realities of protecting the Salish Sea, the Snake River, and the more-than-human kin that call those places home, and the spiritual questions that cruelty and disregard for the more-than-human provoke. How has humanity gotten to such a point? Kurt shares guided wisdom about the realities of commodification, ecocide, and the capacity of the human soul for intentional cruelty. How we fight against such darkness matters not just for humanity, but for all with whom we share this precious earth. Kurt Russo is currently the Executive Director of the Indigenous-led nonprofit, Se'Si'Le, that is dedicated to the application of ancestral knowledge to reimagine our relationship to the nature of nature. He worked for the Lummi Nation from 1978-2020 in the area of sacred sites and treaty rights. He also served as Executive Director of the Native American Lands Conservancy in California from 1998-2016 and was Senior Advisor to the Kumeyaay-Digueno Land Conservancy of southern California. He was the co-founder and Executive Director of the Florence R. Kluckhohn Center for the Study of Values from 1987-2002. He has a BS and MS in Forestry and a PhD in History. He has worked abroad with Indigenous communities in their efforts to preserve their ancestral lands and knowledge in Mexico, Guatemala, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Chile.For an extended version of this episode, join us at patreon.com/forthewildMusic by Francesca Heart and Julius Smack. Visit our website at forthewild.world for the full episode description, references, and action points.Support the show

Jonathan Mesulam @MesulamJonathan Founder and Coordinator of the West Coast Development Foundation in New Guinea talks with Skaana host Mark Leiren-Young @leirenyoung about the crucial fight to stop Deep Sea Mining in his home - New Guinea - and around the world.

It is with a heavy heart that we share that Tokitae, a Southern Resident Orca held unjustly in captivity for 53 years, has passed away. To honor her memory, this week we are rebroadcasting our episode with Kurt Russo on the People Under the Sea, originally aired in October of 2018. This conversation explores the powerful memory held by Southern Resident orcas, the threats they face from vessel noise, chemical pollutants, and declining Chinook salmon population, the health of the Salish Sea, and the efforts of the Lummi Nation to return Sk'aliCh'elh-tenaut (also  known as Tokitae/Lolita), from where she was being held captive at Miami Seaquarium, to her natal waters in the Salish Sea. Tokitae's life ended while in captivity, but we hope that her memory may serve to inspire the fight for right-relationship and reciprocity with our more-than-human-kin. Kurt Russo is the executive director of Se'Si'Le, an Indigenous-led nonprofit dedicated to the perpetuation and practical application of Indigenous ancestral knowledge. Kurt has worked with Indigenous communities since 1978 in the areas of sacred site protection, Indigenous treaty rights, environmental cross-cultural conflict resolution, and the intertextualization of ways of knowing nature. He was co-Founder and Executive Director of the Florence R. Kluckhohn Center for the Study of Values and the Native American Land Conservancy, helped establish the International Indigenous Exchange Program (Northwest Indian College), the Sacred Lands Conservancy, and the Foundation for Indigenous Medicine. He has a BS in Forestry from the University of Montana, an MS in Forestry from the University of Washington, and a Ph.D. in History from the University of California (Riverside). He is a veteran and served in Vietnam where he worked with Montagnard Indigenous communities.Music by Monplaisir and Amoeba. Visit our website at forthewild.world for the full episode description, references, and action points.Support the show

For decades, a wide range of man-made and environmental threats have endangered Southern Resident Orca—thinning the population in the Pacific Northwest to only 73. Today, they're looking directly at extinction.   The urgency of the orcas' plight cannot be overstated. While many agencies and organizations are working to save our orca through scientific research, mitigation programs, public policy initiatives, and political action, these efforts have fallen short and the orca simply can't wait. The show is about how each of us can help make a difference simply by NOT ordering a particular item off the menu.   In this 61st episode of the Animal Wellness podcast, host Joseph Grove talks with Emma Helverson and Joseph Gaydo. Helverson, executive director of Wild Fish Conservancy, in Washington, shares her organization's efforts to protect the Southern Resident orca from one of the many threats facing them—starvation. Gaydo, science director for the SeaDoc Society, talks about the complex personalities, culture and thinking exhibited by all orcas, including the Southern Resident, and how humans' nonchalance about their well-being is having a catastrophic impact.    The Animal Wellness podcast is produced by Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy. It focuses on improving the lives of animals in the United States and abroad through legislation and by influencing businesses to create a more humane economy. The show is hosted by veteran journalist and animal-advocate Joseph Grove. Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify and Podbean offer subscriptions to the free show.

On this episode Kathleen Callaghy, Defenders of Wildlife Northwest Representative talks about the threats being faced by the endangered southern resident orca population.

KGMI's Joe Teehan talks to Executive Director of Wildfish Conservancy Emma Halverson about a judge's decision on salmon fishing and its impact on Southern Resident Orcas.

Producer Joseph joins Kayce in talking about concerns they share regarding the Lolita case - the risks to Lolita, to the Southern Resident Orcas, the Marine Mammal Industry, and relentless harassment from extremists.

Transport Canada has announced 10 measures to protect the critically endangered southern resident orcas off the British Columbia coast, including mandatory speed zones in two areas near Swiftsure Bank, fishing closures, and interim sanctuary zones. Commercial and recreational salmon fishing will be banned this summer and fall throughout the waters of the southern Gulf Islands. From now until May 31, 2024, vessels are required to stay at least 400 meters away from all orcas in southern B.C. coastal waters. However, cetacean researcher and senior research scientist with the Raincoast Conservation Foundation, Lance Barrett-Lennard, said the measures need to go much further to help the animals thrive, including much broader fishing restrictions throughout their critical habitat.   Link to article: https://bit.ly/3HwC3Mp   Book a podcast interview time to share your conservation journey: https://calendly.com/sufb/sufb-interview   Fill out our listener survey: https://www.speakupforblue.com/survey   Join the audio program - Build Your Marine Science and Conservation Career: https://www.speakupforblue.com/career   Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc   

The Miami Seaquarium has announced that it will begin the work of releasing the last remaining captive Southern Resident Orca, and bringing her home to the Salish Sea.

The difference could be linked to the Southern Resident Orcas' dangerously low numbers in the Salish Sea.

That's under a proposal now in the state legislature. Olympia correspondent Jeanie Lindsay reports.

Free Willy. SeaWorld and Blackfish. Whale watching tours. People simply love orca whales. Unfortunately, this beloved species and many more are being harmed by the Navy's Growler jet program and Naval activities in the waters of Northwest Washington. Guest Bob Wilbur (he/him), the president of the Citizens of Ebey's Reserve (COER), tells us about how animals are impacted by these activities, and how the impacts are being downplayed and overlooked by the Navy. He also shares about COER's efforts to protect the endangered Southern Resident orca whale and marbled murrelet seabird.  Listen to learn how animals also fall victim to the Growler jets and how you can be part of the efforts to protect them.   Resources: Learn more about the Growler jets and how to take action at: www.SoundDefenseAlliance.org Citizens of Ebey's Reserve (COER) Learn more about the Marbled Murellet   Glossary Terms: Endangered species - A species of animal or plant that is seriously at risk of extinction. Threatened species - A plant or animal species perceived as likely, in the near future, to become endangered within all or much of its range. Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) - A government document that outlines the impact of a proposed project on its surrounding environment. In the United States, these statements are mandated by federal law for certain projects. Take - To harass, hunt, capture, or kill, or attempt to harass, hunt, capture, or kill any marine mammal. Minimum Viable Population Size - Ecological threshold that specifies the smallest number of individuals in a species or population capable of persisting at a specific statistical probability level for a predetermined amount of time. National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA) - An act signed into law on January 1, 1970 that requires federal agencies to assess the environmental effects of their proposed actions prior to making decisions.   Nature sounds recorded in the Olympic National Park (Gordon Hempton, The Sound Tracker, Co-Founder Quiet Parks International) Hosted by Terra Huey and Caitlin Epstein Produced by Caitlin Epstein in partnership with the Sound Defense Alliance

Documentary filmmaker Gloria Pancrazi and Michael Bronner of Dr. Bronner's join us this week for a conversation about the recent film, Coextinction. We discuss the stars of the film: the Southern Resident Orcas of the Pacific Northwest who are currently facing extinction and the salmon, whose brutal exploitation is contributing to the to the starvation of the orca and other wildlife. … The post Coextinction w/ Gloria Pancrazi & Michael Bronner appeared first on Our Hen House.

Seattle Times (@seattletimes) environment reporter Lynda V Mapes (@LyndaVMapes) on dams versus salmon, saving the southern resident orcas and how Tahlequah changed the world. "All the things we do for our comfort, convenience and commerce are not good for the southern residents. And that's just fact."

In this episode, we are in conversation with members of the Multifaith Network for Climate Justice in Bellingham, a small city in the north of Washington State. We hear from Deb Cruz from the Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship, Steve Hansen—a Buddhist from the Insight Meditation Society, and Andrea Shupack from Congregation Beth Israel.  Rooted in a sense of spiritual and moral responsibility to protect the Earth, the mission of the Multifaith Network for Climate Justice is to engage and connect different faith and wisdom traditions in responsive, collaborative community.Upcoming event: https://www.circlewood.online/wisdom-from-wilderness-webcastFree live webinar with Brian McLaren, hosted by Forrest Inslee, Victoria Loorz (Wild Church Network) & Kate Davis (Center for Transforming Engagement) on May 17th, 7pm PST.  Brian McLaren's new book: Do I Stay a Christian?Guests: Deb Cruz - Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship Steve Hansen - Bellingham Insight Meditation Society Andrea Shupack - Congregation Beth Israel Multifaith Network for Climate Justice  Mentions: Theravada Buddhism JUUstice Washington - a Unitarian Universalist State Action Network The 7 Principles of Unitarian Universalism Joanna Macy - deep ecology - definition Bhikku Bodhi - 2019 UN address b'tzelem Elohim - made in the image of God Paul Ehrlich - author of The Population Bomb 1st Earth Day - 1970 Green Sanctuary process MNCJ legislative review for WA state legislature - Jan. 2022 Earth Ministry Year of the Shmita - 7th year Shabbat Lummi NationBIPOC = Black, Indigenous & People of Color Dan Jones aka SaSuWeh - former chair of the Ponca tribe in Oklahoma, U.S.  Ethics of Our Fathers - "it's not incumbent on us to finish the work, but we must do our part." Katharine Hayhoe - book: Saving Us 

What it will take to share this region with Qw'e lh'ol mechen, ‘the people that live under the sea'

In this episode of What About Death, Tsultrim speaks with Dr Kriss Kevorkian, a Climate Thanatologist from Washington State in the USA. In part one, of this two part series, Dr. Kevorkian explains environmental and ecological grief and why we humans often experience grief reactions to the death of ecosystems and the extinction of animal and plant species. She also explains her research of the Southern Resident Orca Whale and how they are working hard to try and prevent the extinction of this very endangered ocean mammal. This episode of What About Death is hosted by Tsultrim. Our editors are Adair Sheppard, Werner Mathiuet, Shannon Callander, Ryan Drover, Kiara Fauzi. Special thanks to Verena Coombs, Joshua Byrd, and the whole Karuna team. Brought to you by karuna.org.au https://karuna.org.au/donate-karuna/ Our music is Bling Heights by Ahjay Stelino If listening to these podcasts raises any concerns or issues for you please contact Lifeline on 131114 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.

The Pacific Northwest is proud of its wildlife. Here in Seattle, certain creatures have become local mascots, like the salmon swimming up Pipers Creek, the ever adorable sea otters at the aquarium, and the endangered Southern Resident Orca struggling to survive in our waters. But what can our shared history with these animals tell us about our regional identity? What do they have to say about our past, our present, and our uncertain future? Beasts of Seattle examines the intertwined human-animal history of our area through the lens of six wondrous, wild things. From the extinct Salish Wool Dog to the Sasquatch who may still be wandering our woods, Beasts of Seattle takes the listener on a journey through time and across species, interviewing artists, ecologists, chefs, historians, and more. If these animals can teach us who Seattleites are, they also hold the keys to who we could become. Samantha Allen is the author of Patricia Wants to Cuddle and the Lambda Literary Award finalist Real Queer America: LGBT Stories from Red States. A GLAAD Award-winning journalist, Samantha's writing has been published by The New York Times, Rolling Stone, CNN, and more. Click here to view the Beasts of Seattle podcast residency page.

The Pacific Northwest is proud of its wildlife. Here in Seattle, certain creatures have become local mascots, like the salmon swimming up Pipers Creek, the ever adorable sea otters at the aquarium, and the endangered Southern Resident Orca struggling to survive in our waters. But what can our shared history with these animals tell us about our regional identity? What do they have to say about our past, our present, and our uncertain future? Beasts of Seattle examines the intertwined human-animal history of our area through the lens of six wondrous, wild things. From the extinct Salish Wool Dog to the Sasquatch who may still be wandering our woods, Beasts of Seattle takes the listener on a journey through time and across species, interviewing artists, ecologists, chefs, historians, and more. If these animals can teach us who Seattleites are, they also hold the keys to who we could become. Samantha Allen is the author of Patricia Wants to Cuddle and the Lambda Literary Award finalist Real Queer America: LGBT Stories from Red States. A GLAAD Award-winning journalist, Samantha's writing has been published by The New York Times, Rolling Stone, CNN, and more. Click here to view the Beasts of Seattle podcast residency page.

Whale watchers are excited, but also worried about the whale's food supply

In our last episode for Season 1, Amy Souers Kober, of American Rivers, talks about the rising global movement to restore free-flowing river ecosystems, upon which so much sentient life depends. We discuss the benefits of removing the thousands of dams that still crisscross North America. Right now, there is a groundswell of support to breach four dams on the lower Snake River to save salmon and the Southern Resident Orca from extinction. It's a once-in-a-generation opportunity, Amy says, one that requires immediate action and funding from the Biden Administration or U.S. Congress. Call to Action: https://www.americanrivers.org/SnakeRiver2021 (Join growing calls to breach the lower Snake River dams here). Intro music: "The Spaces Between," by Scott Buckley. Interstitial music: "Between the Rings," by Stellardrone. Thank you for listening and supporting Sentient Planet and its message. See you next season!

For those who can't get enough of "podfather" Ken Balcomb – and those new to his lifetime of dedication to the Southern Resident Orca (SRO) – here's the additional interview we promised. Listen to Ken describe the staggering natural beauty that drew him to North America's Pacific Northwest, his first orca sighting 45 years ago, and what it's been like to encounter and document these amazing yet highly threatened sentient beings. Ken also shares his thoughts on the continuing threats to the SROs existence and why removing dams and restoring river ecosystems are essential to their future, as well as our own. To learn more, listen to our prior podcast, "Podfather: One Man's Journey to Save the Southern Resident Orca" and visit Ken's organization, the https://www.whaleresearch.com/ (Center for Whale Research.) Call to Action: Support the growing movement to breach the four Lower Snake River dams, save the salmon and feed the orca on the https://damsense.org/ (Dam Sense) and https://www.americanrivers.org/ (American Rivers) websites. Intro music: "The Spaces Between" by Scott Buckley. Interstitial music: "Red Giant" by Stellardrone. Photo: Susan Woodward.

The Recreation and Conservation Office has named Tara Galuska as the new State Orca Recovery Coordinator. KGMI Afternoon News host Joe Teehan catches up with her to discuss how she will help the recovery of the Southern Resident Orca population.

This week, we step back from the Southern Resident Orca to discover more about their watery home through the eyes of a mapmaker. Stefan Freelan is the cartographer from Western Washington University who created the Salish Sea & Surrounding Basin map, aiding a decades-long campaign to bring an official name (and purpose) to an entire ecosystem. To download a free copy of his beautiful (two-sided!) Salish Sea map, visit http://maps.stefanfreelan.com/salishsea/ (Stefan's website here). Call to Action: If you haven't already, please consider signing the petition for https://legalrightsforthesalishsea.org/petition/ (Legal Rights for the Salish Sea). Intro music: "The Spaces Between" by Scott Buckley. Interstitial music: "Odyssey" by One Man Symphony. Coastal audio: BBC Sounds.

This week's episode is from the field! Susan interviews whale researcher Ken Balcomb. The interview takes place at Ken's Big Salmon Ranch property on the beautiful Elwha River, acquired to preserve a key salmon-spawning habitat that is vital to feeding J, K and L pods. Calls to Action: For more stories, photos and videos about the individual whales in the Southern Resident pods, as well as information on how to help them, visit the https://www.whaleresearch.com/ (Center for Whale Research) site. Support growing calls to https://damsense.org/ (breach the Lower Snake River Dams.) Read the Outside article about Ken (that Susan refers to in the episode) here: "https://www.outsideonline.com/2420681/end-watch-southern-resident-orcas (Is It Too Late for the Southern Resident Orcas?)" In North America, you can view wild orca on the West Coast, especially around the San Juan and Gulf Islands, in the summertime. Intro music: "The Spaces Between" by Scott Buckley. Interstitial music: "To the Great Beyond" by Stellardrone. Photo: Susan Woodward. Thanks to http://www.orcasound.net/ (OrcaSound) and Ocean Networks Canada for the audio clips of J, K and L pods and to BBC Sounds for ocean waves audio clips.

Rena Priest is an award-winning poet and writer, a National Geographic Explorer and a member of the Lummi Nation. In April, she was named Washington State Poet Laureate - the first time Washington has awarded this role to an indigenous poet. Today, we discuss Rena's calling to write about the Southern Resident Orca, whom the Lummi consider their "relatives under the sea." Rena also honors us with indigenous storytelling and worldviews. Call to Action: Join the campaign to free Tokitae and https://www.change.org/p/miami-seaquarium-free-endangered-orca-held-captive-at-miami-seaquarium-for-50-years (sign the petition here). Intro music: “The Spaces Between,” by Scott Buckley. Interstitial music: "Endeavor," by Stellardrone.

Witnessing the decline of species and habitat in this time of mass extinction is deeply painful. In 2001, thanatologist https://drkkevorkian.com/ (Dr. Kriss Kevorkian) gave a name to what many of us are feeling – environmental (and ecological) grief. In our first Sentient Planet guest interview, Kriss talks about her journey from a love of whales to working in death and dying, climate change, and now the Rights of Nature movement. The inescapable truth is that we humans have created our current crises. How can we return to a right relationship with nature and all sentient life? Call to Action: If you love orca (and salmon) as much as we do, please support Legal Rights for the Salish Sea by signing Kriss' https://legalrightsforthesalishsea.org/petition/ (Declaration of the Rights of the Southern Resident Orcas) here. Intro music: “The Spaces Between,” by Scott Buckley. Interstitial music: “Breathe in the Light,” by Stellardrone.

There are only about 70 Southern Resident Killer Whales remaining in the wild and they're looking directly at extinction if things don't change. Southern Resident Orcas are emotionally intelligent animals with complex family dynamics. They also have a deep spiritual connection to the tribes and first nations who've been in the Salish Sea since time immemorial. Over the next six weeks, we'll dive into those issues and more, with some brilliant guests joining us along the way. Subscribe to the podcast and spread the word!

Dr. Holly Fearnbach, speaks to Dr. Ashley Scarlett about “SR3”, which stands for SeaLife Response, Rehabilitation, and Research. This program studies the health of endangered southern resident killer whales and the decline in their prey. But, she also gives us some hope for this population and their health status and tells listeners how they can stay connected to the conservation efforts of this population.

This week, Erica chatted with Breaching Extinction's Cultural Resources Intern Jake Rider about his current research project with Eckerd College evaluating the impacts of capitalism and culture on our views of Orcas. They discuss in depth the impact of capitalism on commodification and public view of killer whales. Sources: Scholarly Articles: Cultural Staples in Crisis: A Historical Analysis of Southern Resident Orcas and Chinook Salmon /By, Dylan Farrell Seidler Books: A Puget Sound Orca in Captivity The Fight to Bring Lolita Home /By, Sandra Pollard Native American Almanac: More Than 50,000 Years of the Cultures and Histories of Indigenous Peoples /By Dennis et al. Films: Lolita: Slave to Entertainment /By Tim Gorski Sponsored by Blackfin Coffee, use promo code "BreachExtinction20" for 20% off of your first order.

Operators of commercial whale-watching vessels are pushing back against proposed new regulations from the state. The Department of Fish and Wildlife is implementing a mandatory licensing system for the vessels , after the Washington Legislature passed a directive last year that also instructed the department to develop rules for viewing endangered southern resident killer whales.

Here is the organization Abbie & I discussed in the podcast:  https://www.wildorca.org/act/   For the coupon code:  www.earthsunflower.com ---> For 15% off use SINCERELYEARTH  

Great News! A new Orca calf was spotted taking its first breaths off the coast of Victoria, B.C. The calf was spotted being propped up by it's other, J41. The naturalists who spotted the calf observed that it was rambunctious at the surface.  This is the second Orca calf spotted in September of 2020. It is too early to tell the health or the sex of this calf. The first was spotted on September 4th and was later identified as a male and healthy. The mother of that calf was J35. J35 was the Orca from 2018 that carried her dead calf at the surface for 17 days in a row with the help from her pod. The last healthy calf was spotted in May 2019. The Southern Resident Orca Population is listed as Endangered as their numbers are just above 70. The population has been affected by capture for marine theme parks, such as Sea World, lack of food as their one food source, salmon, which are also listed as endangered is not readily available.  Listen to the episode for full details.  Link To Article: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/jpod-baby-confirmed-1.5738892 Want To Talk Oceans? Join the Speak Up For Blue Facebook Group: http://www.speakupforblue.com/group. Speak Up For Blue Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakupforblue/ Speak Up For Blue Twitter: https://twitter.com/SpeakUpforBlue Check out the Shows on the Speak Up For Blue Network: Marine Conservation Happy Hour Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2k4ZB3x Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2kkEElk Madame CuriosityApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2xUlSax Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2V38QQ1 ConCiencia Azul: Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2k6XPio Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2k4ZMMf Dugongs & Seadragons: Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2lB9Blv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2lV6THt Environmental Studies & Sciences Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2lx86oh Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2lG8LUh Marine Mammal Science: Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2k5pTCI Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2k1YyRL Projects For Wildlife Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2Oc17gy Spotify: https://spoti.fi/37rinWz Ocean Science RadioApple Podcast: https://apple.co/3chJMfA Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3bnkP18 The Guide To Mindful Conservation: Dancing In Pink Hiking Boots:Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/31P4UY6 Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3f7hDJw

The Orca, J35, that carried her dead Orca calf in 2018 that made headlines around the world has given birth to J57, a spry calf that for the Southern Resident Orca Population.  This is the first successful birth since May 2019, which is averaging 1 successful birth per season compared to a healthy population that would birth 6-8 calves per season.  The Southern Resident Orca Population has been plagued by human pressures of capture for captivity, hunting, and lack of salmon. Every birth counts for this endangered population.  Did this birth give you hope for the Southern Resident Orca Population? Share your thoughts in the Speak Up For Blue Facebook Group: http://www.speakupforblue.com/group. Speak Up For Blue Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakupforblue/ Speak Up For Blue Twitter: https://twitter.com/SpeakUpforBlue Check out the Shows on the Speak Up For Blue Network: Marine Conservation Happy Hour Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2k4ZB3x Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2kkEElk Madame CuriosityApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2xUlSax Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2V38QQ1 ConCiencia Azul: Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2k6XPio Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2k4ZMMf Dugongs & Seadragons: Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2lB9Blv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2lV6THt Environmental Studies & Sciences Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2lx86oh Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2lG8LUh Marine Mammal Science: Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2k5pTCI Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2k1YyRL Projects For Wildlife Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2Oc17gy Spotify: https://spoti.fi/37rinWz Ocean Science RadioApple Podcast: https://apple.co/3chJMfA Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3bnkP18 The Guide To Mindful Conservation: Dancing In Pink Hiking Boots:Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/31P4UY6 Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3f7hDJw

In this episode, Jordan Van Voast activists working with the Seattle Cruise Control to prevent more cruise ships from entering Southern Resident Orca habitat. He shares his thoughts on how we culturally value the environment and encourages listens to stay truly connected.

She will be home in 2020. That was the word from members of the Lummi Nation who have not given up on their efforts to free the captive Southern Resident orca some call "Lolita" from her cement tank at the Miami Seaquarium. A nonprofit law group has now joined the fight , bringing new legal tactics to the battle.

The Canadian Government has implemented some new protective measures to protect the Southern Resident Orca Population off the coast of British Columbia. They implemented another distance measure as well as some more restrictions of fishing for Chinook Salmon, the Resident Populations favourite food.  I also make some other announcements on things that are going on around the world as well as some company-related things. If you would like to be on the podcast, please contact me at andrew@speakupforblue.com. Link To Article: https://worldcetaceanalliance.org/2020/05/28/canada-lays-down-new-restrictions-to-aid-killer-whale-conservation/ Check out the new Speak Up For The Ocean Blue Podcast App: http://www.speakupforblue.com/app. Speak Up For Blue Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakupforblue/ Speak Up For Blue Twitter: https://twitter.com/SpeakUpforBlue Check out the Shows on the Speak Up For Blue Network: Marine Conservation Happy Hour Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2k4ZB3x Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2kkEElk Madame CuriosityApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2xUlSax Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2V38QQ1 ConCiencia Azul: Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2k6XPio Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2k4ZMMf Dugongs & Seadragons: Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2lB9Blv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2lV6THt Environmental Studies & Sciences Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2lx86oh Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2lG8LUh Marine Mammal Science: Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2k5pTCI Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2k1YyRL Projects For Wildlife Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2Oc17gy Spotify: https://spoti.fi/37rinWz Ocean Science RadioApple Podcast: https://apple.co/3chJMfA Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3bnkP18

If you haven't read or listened to the audio book Lost Frequency and you love orcas....go and do it as soon as possible. This is a fantastic book and we were lucky enough to sit down with author Barry Swanson and his partner Marine Naturalist Rachelle Hayden to talk about his book, the state of the Southern Resident Orcas, and what all of us can do to help. I hope you enjoy listening to this episode as much as we had making it.  If you wish to support the March for the Dams movement go to www.marchforthedams.com Or if you want to buy a BREACH hoodie to help fund the March, please go to www.pnwprotectors.com/shop Holdfast, Cy and Snow

The already diminished population of B.C.'s endangered southern resident killer whales (SRKW) has taken another hit. The Washington state-based Center for Whale Research said Tuesday that three adult southern resident orcas are missing and now presumed dead. That leaves the southern resident population at just 73. Guest: Josh McInnes Research Coordinator at Marine Life Studies, based in Campbell River Marine mammal scientist

In this episode we talk with Nathan Donnelly, permaculture practitioner, Youth Conservation Corp. crew coordinator, nature awareness and survival skills instructor, and contestant on the Alone Show, season 6. In our discussion we get into a lot of topics, namely how humans can live with the natural fire cycle, Nathan's work with the Youth Conservation Corp., the healing aspects of nature that Nathan has experienced, especially while on the Alone show, permaculture and our role as stewards of the land, hunting and conservation, Talequah and the plight of Southern Resident Orcas, and the importance of community.Nathan's Instagram PageNathan's Facebook PageNathan's WebsiteSan Juan County Orca Protection Initiative - The nonprofit dedicated to protecting the Orca Pod in the Salish Sea areaBook Recommendations:What the Robin KnowsAnything by Jon YoungPermaculture BooksThe Spell of the SensuousBraiding Sweetgrass (My recommendation)

Dr. Greg Ruggerone joins us in-studio to discuss interesting biennial trends related to the boom and bust abundance levels of pink salmon and Southern Resident killer whale births and deaths. Since Southern Resident killer whales don’t directly prey upon pink salmon in a significant way, what’s the connection here? Dr. Greg Ruggerone walks us through […] The post Are Pink Salmon a Threat to Southern Resident Orcas? Salmon Scientist Dr. Greg Ruggerone weighs in. appeared first on Whale Scout.

Last summer, the world watched as mother Orca, Tahlequah, carried her dead calf on a “tour of grief” for more than 1,000 miles over a 17-day period. The Lummi Nation of the Salish Sea believes that Tahlequah’s display of her dead offspring was an intentional act —not only an act of grieving, but intended to stir an empathetic reaction from those who live above the water. This moment continues to be a profound reminder that we share our place and experience with other beings that bear memory, whose capacity for love and loss mirror our own. It also highlights the uncertainty of the Southern Resident Orca's livelihood, and that of our entire planetary community, if we continue to act with reckless abandon.  In this week’s encore episode, we step back into conversation with Kurt Russo who has worked on environmental issues, land preservation, and treaty rights with The Lummi Nation of the Salish Sea for 40 years. He is also the Executive Director of The Foundation for Indigenous Medicine and the former Director of The Native American Land Conservancy. He holds a BS and MS in Forestry and a Ph.D. in History. Kurt shares with us the Lummi word “Elchnexwtex,” which refers to a time when all life forms were one — when the “black fish,” Orcas, and the “young ones,” Humans, were one. The black fish, "qwe 'lhol mechen,” are known as the people under the sea. Amidst ongoing colonial violence and resource extraction like the recent approval of the Trans Mountain Pipeline expansion project, The Lummi Nation continues to follow their sacred duty to protect and defend the sanctity of the lands, waters, and communities of the Salish Sea. This episode is a call to the human heart. The impassioned Kurt Russo, speaking on behalf of the qwe 'lhol mechen, is one that will imprint itself on your memory as a cold hard look into the mirror of humanity. Music by Monplaisir, Amoeba

Jason Colby (@jasoncolby2) author of Orca: How We Came to Know and Love the Ocean's Greatest Predator on the history of humanity's relationship with orcas - and his personal connection to the capture era.“We have very generational memories about our local ecologies.”Skaana podcasts connect you to news and experts and their discussions about oceans, orcas and the environment.You can use the affiliate links below to support the pod.Join the Pod……https://www.patreon.com/mobydollSkaana Tip Jar... https://paypal.me/skaana  Skaana home…..skaana.orgSkaana on iTunes... Skaana.caFacebook………..https://www.facebook.com/skaanapod/Twitter……………https://twitter.com/leirenyoungThe Killer Whale Who Changed the World…. http://amzn.to/2pRNU1q The post Historian Jason Colby on the History and Future of the Southern Resident Orcas appeared first on MLY.

We begin with a mother orca's 17-day "tour of grief." How J35's display captured the attention of the world as she pushed her dead calf for more than 1,000 miles. And how Q13 News' Simone Del Rosario began diving deeper into the plight of the iconic killer whales.

Mike McKnight, Aimee Russell, Amy Terra and Nancy Black. If fishing and the outdoors is your therapy this is the episode for you. Mike and Aimee/Amy talk about how fishing and the outdoors are the mental therapy. Aimee Russell fished to cope with personal tragedy. Amy Terra uses fly fishing to cope with coming back from life threatening health issues. Then Nancy Black from Monterey Bay Whale watch joins us to talk bout the endangered Southern Resident Orcas that turned up suddenly in Monterey this week. 

Jim Waddell is a retired Civil Engineer from the US Army Corps of Engineers where he served for 36 years. Over the last 6 years Jim has been working relentlessly providing information to the public, leading the movement to breach the lower four snake river dams in order to save the endangered chinook salmon and Southern Resident Orca populations with his "Dam Sense" recommendations and information. In this episode Jim speaks with us in depth about the critical importance of why breaching is so critical this year, the complexities, the logistics, the cost, and the bureaucracy we all have to overcome in order save our orcas.

An interview with Jess Ammann on the anthropogenic threats affecting our Southern Resident Orcas, plus an inspiring Activist Profile with Vancouver's Angel Chen.Read more →

Ken Balcomb is THE research expert on Southern Resident Orca Population in the Salish Sea area. Ken has predicted two deaths by summer 2019 based on the state of J17 (female, 42 years-old) and J25 (male, 27 years-old). He says both individuals look skinny compared to recent years and J25 is exhibiting "peanut head", which is a sign of malnutrition as the head is smaller than the rest of the body.  J17 is the grandmother of the calf that was born last summer (2018) and died a half an hour later. It's mother carried her dead calf for 17 days making international news. Ken suggests J17 probably underwent significant stress watching her daughter grieve her newborn loss for so long. Coupled with lack of food (chinook salmon), the grieving could have made survival difficult for J17. The Southern Resident Orca population has dwindled to 74 individuals and may lose two or more this year due to a lack of food. Chinook Salmon populations have also declined due to damns blocking rivers, which serve as reproductive habitats for the salmon populations. Canadian and US governments refuse to make hydro companies remove damns that are not in use anymore to help save the salmon populations within the Salish Sea. Instead, the US government recently approved a bill that will allow the culling of 1000 sea lions as they say the pinnipeds are responsible for the decline in salmon populations in the area. Listen to the episode to get the full details and find out how the lack of food is changing the Orca population's behaviour. Share Your Thoughts On The Movie in the Facebook Group: http://www.speakupforblue.com/group Want to get started on living for a better Ocean? Sign up for the Grove Collaborative and get a free gift: http://www.speakupforblue.com/goocean.

We sit down with the co-founders of activist organization PNW Protectors Cy Scammell and Snow McCormick to learn about their efforts to save the Southern Resident Orca population of the Salish Sea.

Gloria and Elena, co-directors or Co-Extinction Film, share with us their experiences of what it's like to tackle a multi movie series about such a powerful topic: the co-extinction of chinook salmon and the Southern Resident Orcas. Neither of them have had ever made a film before, but through social media and sheer will, they brought together a powerful team of cinematographers and film crew from around the globe to help create what is to be surely to be one of the most powerful conservation series of 2019.

Alex and Maria spent three months this summer on San Juan Island filming their movie "Searching for Chinook." What they couldn't have known was the tragic events of Tahlequah (J-35) pushing her dead calf for 18 days over 1,000 miles as well as young Scarlet (J-50) dying after a long fight with starvation during their filming timeline. In the midst of these events, the Orca Task Force was forced by public comments to finally discuss the breaching of the lower four snake river dams which surprisingly to Alex and Maria, the task force knew virtually nothing about despite it being the only short and long term solution in saving the Southern Resident Orcas. Alex and Maria felt it was going to be a tough summer, but they had no idea the amount of drama they would be capturing everyday filming the orcas, politicians, scientists, and Orca experts.

Dr. Joe Gaydos spoke to us about the science behind breaching the Lower Four Snake River Dams, his summer up close and personal with the Southern Resident Orcas, and ways each and every individual can save our Orcas! Visit our website at www.pnwprotectors.com or follow us on Instagram @pnwprotectors for more information on the latest SRKW news and how you can help Save Our Orcas!

Jeff Friendman, President of the Pacific Whale Watching Association, and Sara Shimazu, Naturalist of Maya's Legacy whale watching, speak about some of their most magical encounters in the Salish Sea with our beloved Orcas as well as their thoughts on the Orca Task Force's "bold" 3-5 year recommendation ban on SRKW whale watching. To learn more about the plight of the Southern Resident Orcas and what you can do to save them, be sure to check out our website at www.pnwprotectors.com and follow us on Instagram @pnwprotectors.

Ep 214 Andrew Trites Southern Resident Orcas are Picky Eaters   The southern resident orca whale population is front and centre in the fight against increased oil tanker traffic. The majestic toothed whale is a member of the oceanic dolphin family. They are also known as killer whales because as a species they will hunt and eat fish, marine mammals; they’ve been known to attack baleen whale calves and even sharks and adult whales.   While, this is true of other orca populations, it is not so with the southern resident population that migrates into the Salish Sea for a couple of months a year. This particular pod has a very limited diet. In other words, they are picky eaters. They really like chinook salmon to the exclusion of just about everything else. They don’t eat harbour seals; they’re not interested in sea lions like their cousins the transient population. Nope, it’s chinook they want and chinook, unfortunately, are a salmon population in distress.   The Salish Sea Marine Survival project is examining a wide range of factors that have contributed to the decline of chinook, coho and steelhead – factors that include eelgrass depletion, a reduction in the volume of phytoplankton and zooplankton, algae blooms, spawning ground distribution as well as great blue herons, harbour seals and sea lions who also love to dine on chinook.   According to Andrew Trites, a professor at UBC’s Marine Mammal Research Unit, our beloved orcas are in danger because they won’t eat other species of salmon, nor will they hunt and eat harbour seals or sea lions. In other words, they are thin due to a very narrow diet. Add in the disproportionate number of males to females, and the prognosis for the southern resident orca is not good.   We invited Andrew Trites to join us for a Conversation That Matters about what is happening with the Southern Resident Orca Whale population.   Simon Fraser University’s Centre for Dialogue presents Conversations That Matter. Join veteran Broadcaster Stuart McNish each week for an important and engaging Conversation about the issues shaping our future. Please become a Patreon subscriber and support the production of this program, with a $1 pledge https://goo.gl/ypXyDs

Hail Mary plans have been hatched to save our Southern Resident Orcas -- but can they succeed? Jason Colby, an envionmental historian at the University of Victoria joins Dave Ross to discuss the history of Orca whales and how their future can be secured -- and the existential threats they face on both sides of the border.

Our Southern Resident Orcas are in trouble and we can help...but we need to change the way we live and act fast. Learn about becoming an advocate for the animals.Read more →

It feels only right that we begin our “more-than-human” themed month of October in honor of the mother Orca, Tahlequah, who carried her dead calf on a “tour of grief” for more than a 1,000 miles over a 17-day period. It is a profound reminder that we share our place and experience with other beings that bear memory, whose capacity for love and loss mirror our own. It also highlights the uncertainty of the Southern Resident Orca's livelihood, and quite frankly the livelihood of our planetary community, if we continue to act with reckless abandon. There has not been a successful Orca birth in the Salish Sea since 2015. This week we interview Kurt Russo who has worked on environmental issues, land preservation, and treaty rights with The Lummi Nation of the Salish Sea for 40 years. He is also the Executive Director of The Foundation for Indigenous Medicine and the former Director of The Native American Land Conservancy. He holds a BS and MS in Forestry and a Ph.D. in History. Music by Monplainsir & Amoeba

The Southern Resident Orca population is a terrible shape. The Orca known as J50 has recently disappeared causing concern for scientists, conservationists and advocates in Canada and the US. There are now only 74 Orcas left in that population.  The major contributing factors to the situation with the Orca population are the lack of chinook salmon and the increase of ship traffic along the West Coast of North America causes risk of ship strikes and underwater noise. There are a number of organizations that do not think the Canadian Government is doing enough to protect the Orcas, so they decided to sue them.  I discuss what they want the Government to do and why during this episode. Source Enjoy the Podcast!!! Do you think the organizations should sue the government for the action that is rarely used? Let me know in the Facebook Group. Patreon Community: http://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon

The Southern Resident Orca Population are considered a Schedule 1 Endangered Species by the Canadian Species At Risk Act. The main reason for the decline of the Orca population which only has 75 individuals left is because of the lack of Chinook Salmon, this according to Dr. Naomi Rose.  Dr. Naomi Rose is our guest on the podcast today in the second of a two-part interview where we discussed the endangered Orca population. Naomi describes some of the biggest barriers (physical and policy) that are creating such a low level population of the Orcas' only food source. There are some quick fixes that will help Salmon and Orca populations increase...and no, it's not a sea lion cull. Enjoy the Podcast!!! Check out our new Deep Dive show where Naomi discusses why an increase in SeaWorld business is proof that the Blackfish Effect is working!!!  

We have our most popular guest on the podcast today, Dr. Naomi Rose. She is a Marine Conservation Advocate who works for the Animal Welfare Institute where she specializes in Whales in Captivity.  Naomi came on the podcast to discuss the plight of wild Orcas of the Southern Resident Population; however, we first got on the topic of Marine Conservation Advocacy and discussed it for a while. It was such great advice and content that I thought I would divide the interview into 2 parts: Today's interview focusing on marine advocacy when it comes to Orcas; and, tomorrow's interview focusing on what is causing the depletion of the Southern Resident Orca population. If you ever wanted to know what it was like to be a good marine advocate, or an environmental advocate in genera, then this is the episode for you. Check out the episode and let me know what you think about advocacy in our Facebook Group. Want more of Naomi? Check out her thoughts on why she hopes that SeaWorld does well under a new business model in our new episode of the Deep Dive.

Ken Balcomb (Centre for Whale Research @CWROrcas) talks Tahlequah (J-35), Scarlet (J-50) and what we need to do to save the southern resident orcas before we meet the teams from NOAA and the DFO fighting to save Scarlet in this special update on the status of J-Pod. And the world premiere of a new song by poet & author Pauline La Bel. #FreeTheSnake Skaana connects you to news and experts and their discussions about orcas, oceans and the environment. Center for Whale Research....https://www.whaleresearch.com Pauline Le Bel... http://paulinelebel.com You can use the affiliate links below to support the pod. Join the Pod……https://www.patreon.com/mobydoll Skaana home…..skaana.org Facebook………..https://www.facebook.com/skaanapod/ Twitter……………https://twitter.com/leirenyoung The Killer Whale Who Changed the World…. http://amzn.to/2pRNU1q Skaana on Medium... https://medium.com/skaana The post Saving Scarlet, Grieving With Tahlequah and the Future of the Southern Resident Orcas appeared first on MLY.

The Canadian Government recently implemented a 200 m minimum distance for any ship in the area of Orcas. They also chopped the Chinook Salmon quota by 35%. The government is doing this because the Southern Resident Orca population only has 75 individuals (estimated) left. The Orca population relies heavily on Chinook Salmon for their diet and they won't diversify their diet.  An article in the Toronto Star highlighted an important factor that face the Orca population: the Orcas are around ships 85% of the time. The government recognizes that the Orca populations are in need of help, but are the measures taken too late or too extreme? Enjoy the Podcast!!! Donate to the Jairo Mora Sandoval Bravery Award to Fund 5 more brave Marine Conservationists Become par to the Speak Up For Blue Nation by joining our Patreon Campaign.  I would love to hear your opinion on this episode. Join the Facebook Group to chime in. Do you know we launched more Ocean Related Podcasts? Subscribe to Marine Conservation Happy Hour and ConCiencia Azul

The Kinder Morgan pipeline expansion could wipe out the Southern Resident Orcas. The orca’s unofficial lawyer, Dyna Tuytel from Ecojustice (@ecojustice_ca), is challenging their plans in court. “I feel like I’m fighting on my client’s behalf, but that we are all fighting on the Orcas’ behalf.”   Skaana connects you to stories about our environment, […] The post Dyna Tuytel talks about Ecojustice, Alexandra Morton, the Species at Risk Act and the National Energy Board appeared first on MLY.

The Kinder Morgan pipeline expansion could wipe out the Southern Resident Orcas. The orca's unofficial lawyer, Dyna Tuytel from Ecojustice (@ecojustice_ca), is challenging their plans in court. “I feel like I’m fighting on my client’s behalf, but that we are all fighting on the Orcas’ behalf."   Skaana connects you to stories about our environment, oceans, and orcas. You can use the affiliate links below to support the pod. Join the Pod…… https://www.patreon.com/mobydoll Skaana home….. https://www.skaana.org Facebook……….. https://www.facebook.com/skaanapod/ Twitter…………... @leirenyoung The Killer Whale Who Changed the World… http://amzn.to/2pRNU1q