Southern Resident Orcas

Southern Resident orcas are a critically endangered population of killer whales found in the Pacific Northwest, primarily around the waters of Washington and British Columbia. They are known for their tight-knit family groups, called pods, which rely on salmon for food, particularly Chinook salmon. These orcas are facing threats from habitat loss, pollution, and a decline in their prey. Conservation efforts are underway to protect their environment and improve the fish populations they rely on. Their distinctive black-and-white coloring and complex social structures make them a fascinating subject of study and a symbol of marine conservation challenges.