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Rachael Merrett
These whales are an important part of marine ecosystems as they are an apex predator and they are at the top of the food chain.
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Rachael Merrett
Southern Resident killer whales are an important part of marine ecosystems - they are an apex predator and at the top of the food chain.
Words by Michelle Young
If we are fortunate, we get the privilege of spending time with whales while we are out on the water. Due to this, we need to be aware that new Marine Mammal Regulations have replaced viewing guidelines, and they directly impact recreational boaters on the West Coast. Boaters in BC are now required to keep distances of at least 200 m (656 ft) from all types of killer whales, and a minimum distance of 100 m (328 ft) from all other whales, dolphins and porpoises.
Approaching marine animals of any type too fast or getting too close creates noise and stress that inhibits their communication. It also interrupts their feeding, mating, socializing, resting, and nurturing behaviours.
These new rules are mandated under the Fisheries Act, yet they directly support the Species At Risk Act (SARA). The purpose of SARA is to prevent wildlife found in Canada from going extinct by providing legal protection and recovery actions for endangered species.
Southern Resident killer whales are an endangered species that spend the summer months in the Salish Sea, which encompasses the Strait of Georgia, Strait of Juan de Fuca, and Puget Sound. These whales are an important part of marine ecosystems as they are an apex predator and they are at the top of the food chain.
Southern Resident killer whales are in dramatic decline. The population’s ability to reproduce is rapidly dwindling as there are 27 reproductive-aged females that have not generated a successful birth in three years. The precariousness of the situation is magnified because only five females are reproducing with any kind of frequency, and mating exclusively with one male.
For these reasons, keeping marine animals safe from human disturbances is a responsibility that all water users share—and it’s important we take that responsibility seriously.
Key Tips for Boating Among Whales
- Slow down and minimize your wake, wash, and engine noise.
- Stay at least 200 m (656 ft) from all types of killer whales, and 100 m (328 ft) from all other whales, porpoises and dolphins.
- Keep farther away if they are resting or several boats are already present.
- If whales approach your boat, turn off your engine until they pass, then move away and keep your distance.
- Avoid erratic maneuvers. Do not chase whales or put your boat in their path.
- Avoid separating marine mammals or trapping them between your vessel and the shore or other vessels.
- Never disturb, interact with, touch, feed, swim, dive with or try to make marine mammals move.
Facts about Southern Resident Killer Whales
- There is a total of 74 of a historic population of 200.
- There are 27 females of reproductive age.
- Not one killer whale was seen in their critical habitat in May 2018—a first in 42 years.
- Scientists confirm that many in the population are starving.
Michelle Young is Coordinator of Georgia Strait Alliance’s Clean Marine BC Program, a voluntary green boating and marina eco-certification program.