A Window into the Lives of Resident Killer Whales

From the Gikumi research vessel, the UBC Marine Mammal Research Unit and the Hakai Institute headed out on the Salish Sea and off the Central Coast of British Columbia to study the foraging behaviours of resident killer whales.

Killer whales live for decades in groups, passing down knowledge. But some whales are at risk of being lost for good due to water and noise pollution, increased shipping traffic, and a shrinking food supply.

Southern residents, classified as endangered, are especially at risk. Researchers hope this study could lead to solutions to help these whales.

Research conducted under DFO and UBC animal care permit (XMMS 6 2019 & A19-0053)

Produced by Katrina Pyne and Meigan Henry

Edited by Meigan Henry

Videography by Keith Holmes and Sarah Fortune

Additional Videography by Grant Callegari and Eiko Jones