Whales

Whales play a vital role in maintaining a healthy and resilient ocean but are vulnerable to human impacts. Our vision is safer, more plentiful waters for whales.

1 in 4

Cetacean species is classified as "at risk" of extinction

20,000

Whales are struck annually by ships (estimated)

7,000

North Pacific humpback whales died between 2013-2021, resulting in a 20% population decline

74

The number of Southern Resident Killer Whales remaining

Sentinels of the Sea

Whales, including dolphins and porpoises, serve as environmental sentinels of our ocean. Their well-being reflects the overall health of marine ecosystems, and their decline would profoundly impact, biodiversity, and human livelihoods.

The Ocean Wise Whales Initiative uses cutting-edge technology, citizen science, and non-invasive collection methods to monitor the health of whales to reduce threats through evidence-based solutions. Learn more about how Ocean Wise is protecting whales below.

Our Work

Sightings Network

Through the Ocean Wise Sightings Network and Whale Report App you can contribute to conservation-based research by submitting sightings of whales, dolphins, porpoises and sea turtles.

Whale Health and Monitoring

The Whale Health and Monitoring Program uses cutting-edge research techniques, including drones, bioacoustics, artificial intelligence, and environmental DNA, to monitor whale health and develop innovative conservation tools that support the population recovery of whales across the globe.

Whale Report Alert System

The Whale Report Alert System provides large commercial vessels with real-time alerts to whale presence. This allows them to slow down or alter course when whales are nearby to reduce the risk of collision and disturbance. Information on whale location is obtained by partner hydrophones and infrared cameras, and from real-time observations reported to the Whale Report App.

Threats to Whales

Wild whales face many threats. Of the 23 species of whales, dolphins, porpoises, and sea turtles found in the waters of British Columbia, 12 are listed under Canada’s Species at Risk Act as Endangered, Threatened, or of Special Concern. These animals face many (human-caused threats that negatively impact critical life processes necessary to maintain healthy populations. Explore the primary threats impacting cetaceans and sea turtles in British Columbia.

Explore Threats

Adopt a Killer Whale!

Since 1992, The Ocean Wise Killer Whale Adoption Program has supported conservation-oriented research on wild killer whales. Your symbolic adoption will support efforts that safeguard these iconic ocean ambassadors.

Learn More!