Environmental Studies and Forestry

Warning sign of an accelerating decline in critically endangered killer whales (Orcinus orca)

R. Williams, R. C. Lacy, et al.

Dive into the critical plight of the Southern Resident killer whale population in this compelling research by Rob Williams and colleagues. Uncover the factors contributing to their alarming decline—dubbed 'bright extinction'—and discover what immediate actions are needed to reverse this tragic trend before these magnificent creatures vanish forever.

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~3 min • Beginner • English

Index

Abstract

The critically endangered Southern Resident killer whales (SRKWs) exemplify “bright extinction,” where a well-studied population continues to decline despite considerable knowledge and management attention. Using updated demographic data and population viability analysis, the study evaluates the population’s sensitivity to prey dynamics, survival rates, and multiple anthropogenic stressors, revealing a projected accelerating decline and emphasizing urgent, multi-threat mitigation focused on restoring Chinook salmon, reducing noise and contaminants, and targeted veterinary interventions.

Publisher

Communications Earth & Environment

Published On

Apr 02, 2024

Authors

Rob Williams, Robert C. Lacy, Erin Ashe, Lance Barrett-Lennard, Tanya M. Brown, Joseph K. Gaydos, Frances Gulland, Misty MacDuffee, Benjamin W. Nelson, Kimberly A. Nielsen, Hendrik Nollens, Stephen Raverty, Stephanie Reiss, Peter S. Ross, Marena Salerno Collins, Raphaela Stimmelmayr, Paul Paquet

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1038/s43247-024-01327-5

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