Its Large Populations Of Killer Whales example essay topic

236 words
Killer whales or Orca inhabit all oceans from the tropics to the edge of the polar ice pack. Throughout this vast range, only one species is recognized (Orcinus orca). The largest known concentrations of killer whales are found in the cooler coastal waters of both hemispheres. Norway, Japan, the Antarctic and our Pacific coast have such concentrations. British Columbia is distinguished by its large populations of killer whales, which are predictably found in sheltered, accessible waters. More than 600 whales inhabit our coastal waters, each identified by unique natural markings.

These whales live in at least four communities: northern resident, southern resident, transient and offshore. Northern resident killer whales frequent the Johnstone Strait area off northern Vancouver Island, primarily during the summer and fall. This community consists of more than 200 whales in 16 pods, each typically composed of 5-20 individuals. About 78 orcas in 3 pods form the southern resident community. Individuals remain with or closely associated with their birth group throughout their lives. Transient groups are smaller, ranging from 1-5 individuals.

Offshore whales seem to travel in large loosely-associated groups. The northern resident killer whale population of British Columbia relies on healthy stocks of wild salmon. We urge decision-makers to follow the risk-averse recommendations of the Pacific Fisheries Resource Conservation Council (PFRCC) to protect wild salmon in the Broughton Archipelago.