Public attitudes are a major part of the success or failure of conservation efforts for most endangered species, especially those occurring near major population centers. Killer whales already enjoy widespread popularity among much of the public living in coastal regions of western North America, but much remains to be done to publicize the plight of the Southern Resident population and to discourage potentially harmful human activities. Many organizations are involved in enhancing public awareness, educating the public on actions they can take to conserve killer whales, and improving public reporting of sightings and strandings. The recovery plan encourages these efforts:

3. Develop public information and education programs.

The Whale Museum

Seattle Aquarium

Killer Whale Tales

Northwest Fisheries Science Center

Orca Network

3.1 Enhance public awareness of Southern Resident status and threats.

3.2 Expand information and education programs to reduce direct vessel interactions with Southern Resident killer whales.

Be Whale Wise: Marine Wildlife Guidelines for Boaters, Paddlers & Viewers

Land-based Viewing:

The Whale Trail

The Whale Museum tours (PDF 130KB)

3.3 Educate the public on positive actions that they can take to improve environmental conditions for Southern Resident killer whales.

3.4 Solicit the public’s assistance in finding killer whales.

Orca Network

The Whale Museum

B.C. Cetacean Sightings Network