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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.

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.

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.

Our Funders

Government of Canada 

DP World

Quiet Sound

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation

Vancouver Fraser Port Authority

Prince Rupert Port Authority

Victoria Foundation

Tides Foundation

Animal Welfare Foundation of Canada

British Ecological Society

Prince of Whales & North Island Kayak

Western Washington University

BC Ferries

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