Sixteen days after the birth and death of her calf, J35 continues to carry the body of the deceased orca as she travels with the rest of her pod. The unprecedented length of time this behavior has continued has begged the question, how might J35 be doing physiologically? At the same time, an operation to try and save J50, another J pod whale who appears in very poor body condition is underway. Learn more with Dawn Noren, Physiological Ecologist at NOAA.
Jeanette Dorner, Director of Mid-Sound Fisheries Enhancement Group, gives us an update on what’s going on in Olympia regarding Atlantic salmon farming and rumors of ramping up hatchery production to provide more prey for killer whales. Whitney shares a story about a local park she is hoping the City of Bothell will name after redfish, also known as kokanee and Jeanette describes restoration projects in Lake Sammamish. Plus, more on upcoming events.
David Bain celebrates 40 years of killer whale research sharing his stories, challenges, and hopes for endangered Southern Resident killer whales.
Let’s learn about salmon together. In order to protect killer whales in Puget Sound we must understand what’s threatening our salmon and take action. Jeanette Dorner from Mid Sound Fisheries Enhancement Group will be joining us on this and future podcasts to help everyone learn more about salmon.
Lina Rose from King County Parks talks to us about the next Helpin’ Out event at the Maury Island Marine Park. Learn more about the event and why it’s important for whales. Plus, Whitney gives us a news update!
June is Orca Month! Learn about how Orca Month got started and has grown into an enormous event with numerous events throughout the West Coast. Susan talks about this year’s highlights. Make your plans now!
Expert naturalist and local artist Sara Hysong-Shimazu discusses what’s been going on with so many Transient type killer whales in Puget Sound this spring plus stories of some of her favorite local whales. She also breaks down how these orcas are named – a system much different than Resident type killer whales.
Learn more about the need for a wildlife hospital for marine mammals and turtles in Puget Sound. Lesanna Lahner, Executive Director and Veterinarian, explains why SR3’s mission is so important and how their group will work with other organizations currently working with stranded animals. Plus, how YOU can help!
NOAA scientist Dawn Noren talks about studying contaminants transferred from killer whales to their calves. This work on captive animals can help understand the physiology of Southern Resident killer whales and some of the challenges they face as an endangered distinct population segment.
Photo Credit: SeaWorld San Diego