PETITION TARGETS: California Department of Fish and Wildlife and members of the California Fish and Game Commission
Southern resident killer whales are facing several compounding threats that are pushing them toward extinction: A dwindling supply of salmon is leaving them malnourished; Vessel noise is interfering with their ability to feed, rest, and reproduce; And toxic contaminants are threatening their overall health, according to NOAA Fisheries.
Tragically, fewer than 80 southern resident killer whales remain. These intelligent and sensitive orcas — whose range extends from southeastern Alaska to central California — are already listed as endangered under U.S. federal law, as well as in Washington state, Oregon, and Canada. However, they have not yet been listed as endangered under the California Endangered Species Act.
Now the California Department of Fish and Wildlife is conducting a status review that will help the California Fish and Game Commission decide whether to designate the whales as threatened or endangered.
If the listing is approved, these protections could help reduce harmful impacts on southern resident killer whales and preserve the habitat they depend on.
These remarkable animals are in crisis and deserve the chance to recover before it’s too late.
Sign our petition urging CDFW to recommend endangered status for southern resident killer whales and the Commission to approve their listing under CESA.
