New Study Challenges Assumptions About Orca Population Decline

Research indicates that southern resident killer whales have ample summer chinook salmon, suggesting other factors may be at play.

The University of British Columbia study found southern resident killer whales have twice as much chinook salmon available in summer compared to northern residents.
Despite the higher summer chinook availability, southern resident killer whale numbers remain critically low at 73, while northern residents thrive at about 300.
Researchers suggest that factors other than salmon availability, such as vessel noise, may impede southern residents' ability to forage effectively.
The study highlights the potential impact of underwater noise, which can disrupt communication and navigation among southern resident orcas.
Experts urge a broader approach to conservation efforts, warning against oversimplifying the causes of the southern resident killer whales' decline.