ORCINUS ORCA COLLECTIVE

Sad news for orca Morgan

2011-11-21T11:54:00.000-08:00

Morgan Heading To Loro Parque

Orcas Need Salmon

2011-11-16T12:16:00.000-08:00

http://www.oregonlive.com/environment/index.ssf/2011/11/northwest_salmon_fisheries_may.html

Baby orca death

2011-11-15T21:32:00.000-08:00

Baby orca found dead on beach: 'This is a very valuable specimen'

Court Hearing in Amsterdam on Fate of Killer Whale - ABC News

2011-11-07T12:42:00.000-08:00

Court Hearing in Amsterdam on Fate of Killer Whale - ABC News

Orcas need Salmon

2011-08-27T21:11:00.002-07:00

Here is a message I am pasting on behalf of the salmon people posted on Orca Live;

The wild salmon people are calling out to the whale people. At the Cohen Inquiry underway in Vancouver we have learned a virus is infecting the majority of Fraser sockeye, but DFO is pulling the funding for this scientist who bravely testified as her peers backed away from her. She was escorted out of the building by large men with ear pieces. We are wrestling for a disease database, which has been given a unique status as a non-public Exhibit . If there is no problem this farm salmon disease database should be easily made public, but it is not. If you can lend the power of your presence and show up on behalf of the whales we certainly need you! 701 W. Georgia 9:30-4pm weekdays through Sept. 8 www.salmonaresacred.org
alex morton@Echo bay

Unfortunately I am not able to get to Vancouver however will pass this message on to those who can.

L90's Alleged Vessel Strike

2011-08-27T12:33:00.001-07:00

Center for Whale Research describes the recent vessel strike as another cause for concern; pregnancy or and illness

Sending lots of love and light out to L90!

Resident Killer Whales Starving?

2011-08-16T12:31:00.000-07:00

In Pictures - The ocean's giants

2011-08-12T04:49:00.001-07:00

http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/14410355

Orca Morgan in Washington Post

2011-08-05T22:10:00.000-07:00

Dutch court blocks export of rescued whale to Spanish park, orders research on return to sea

Orcas Up Close 3

2011-07-28T13:43:00.001-07:00

Orcas Up Close 3
Originally uploaded by Crieffy.

Awesome Scottish orca sighting!

Via Flickr:
Bull Orca, with one of Simon King's nature tours in the background. Happy customers I would think!

Dorsal Fin Collapse in Captive Killer Whales Explained

2011-07-21T22:46:00.000-07:00

Killer whales’ genetic health at risk due to inbreeding: U.S. researchers

2011-07-21T22:44:00.000-07:00

Killer whales’ genetic health at risk due to inbreeding: U.S. researchers

Understanding Orca Culture

2011-06-23T13:30:00.000-07:00

Understanding Orca Culture

Luna: A Whale to Watch

2011-06-23T11:07:00.000-07:00

Luna: A Whale to Watch

Suction cup tagging on Killer Whales

2011-06-16T14:56:00.001-07:00

Using DTAGs to study acoustics and behavior of Southern Resident killer whales

Demand a provincial moratorium on net-cage salmon farm tenures

2011-06-06T23:07:00.003-07:00

http://www.change.org/petitions/demand-a-provincial-moratorium-on-net-cage-salmon-farm-tenures

"With outdated and disconnected salmon farming companies – especially one willing to put an internationally recognized Biosphere Reserve at increased risk – it’s clear we need government to step in on behalf of wild salmon and the health of the Pacific Ocean. The time is long overdue to stop the expansion of net-cages and demand that the aquaculture industry adopt better practices."

If you care about orcas and their habitat then you will want to take a look at this and sign it!

Killer whale tracked making incredible journey from Arctic to Azores

2011-06-06T13:43:00.000-07:00

Killer whale tracked making incredible journey from Arctic to Azores

Scientists zero in on culprits behind Puget Sound water problems | Crosscut.com

2011-06-06T12:11:00.000-07:00

Scientists zero in on culprits behind Puget Sound water problems | Crosscut.com

New Enforcement for Orcas

2011-06-03T20:36:00.000-07:00

The Laws Protecting Orcas From Boats Are Serious, And So Are The Penalties

The Way I Sea It Contest | Entries

2011-05-28T12:46:00.000-07:00

VOTE FOR OUR ORCA FRIEND CLAIRE!!!! The Way I Sea It Contest | Entries

Whale-watch industry removes B.C. watchdog from electronic network

2011-05-27T21:48:00.000-07:00

Whale-watch industry removes B.C. watchdog from electronic network

Transient killer whales make rare appearance off Vancouver’s Stanley Park

2011-05-11T21:40:00.000-07:00

Transient killer whales make rare appearance off Vancouver’s Stanley Park

Changing Whale Watching Regulations

2011-05-08T11:25:00.000-07:00

Vote Wild Salmon

2011-04-15T00:15:00.001-07:00

Vote Wild Salmon - Check it out!!

What to do about a killer killer whale - Opinion - Macleans.ca

2011-04-14T13:44:00.000-07:00

What to do about a killer killer whale - Opinion - Macleans.ca

U.S. tightens whale-watching rules

2011-04-14T11:42:00.000-07:00

U.S. tightens whale-watching rules

Boat regulations upgraded

2011-04-09T10:05:00.000-07:00

New rules give orca whales more space

Whale watchers and other boaters will have to stay twice as far from Puget Sound's orca whales to avoid disturbing the endangered species, under new rules issued Friday by the federal government

Help Orca Network Win $5000!

2011-04-04T16:05:00.000-07:00

Ruffles, old male of the sea, believed to be dead at age 60

2011-03-13T22:08:00.000-07:00

Ruffles, old male of the sea, believed to be dead at age 60

---

PERSONAL NOTE: I HAVE DECIDED TO WITHHOLD MY OWN BLOG POST ON J1 UNTIL AFTER I HAVE OFFICIALLY SEEN THAT HE DID NOT RETURN THIS SUMMER WITH THE K AND L PODS.

Orcas are fascinating!

2011-03-08T16:07:00.001-08:00

(A great clip talking about where you can see wild orcas, also includes my northern resident footage taken from last summer)

WDCS Policy Manager Rob Lott talks about the fascination to experience orcas in the wild. To help orcas go to: wdcs.org

Tokitae/Lolita is sick

2011-03-06T23:29:00.000-08:00

Lolita with tooth infection

Promote wild orcas

2011-03-05T16:47:00.006-08:00

I made this American Apparel Tshirt at Skreened
- Founded in 2006, Skreened is the leader in ethical and socially responsible on-demand printing.

Funds are directed towards supporting orca projects such as Orca Lab (see below). Please support me so I may support the orcas. Hugz

Watchers, boats pose serious risks to marine mammals: zoologist

2011-03-04T00:29:00.000-08:00

Watchers, boats pose serious risks to marine mammals: zoologist

WDCS: ORCA WATCH

2011-03-03T12:41:00.004-08:00

About a week and a half ago, the International Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society launched a heightened campaign about orcas / killer whales called ORCA WATCH. They have been examining the well being of orcas in captivity vrs those in the wild. They update with new content and videos on going so be sure to check their page often.

This clip in particular which is featured on their site right now, Dr Paul Spong talks about the Orca Lab / Orca Live extension project (which I am also currently supporting with a monthly donation) and the video also includes my northern resident killer whale video clip I shot last summer of the A30's. Please visit the WDCS and Orca Live to learn how you can help support this project.

(Thanks for including my work in your vision WDCS)

Orca Cake

2011-02-28T16:35:00.004-08:00

What do you get when you mix my photo and a cake maker??? An Orca Cake!!

Happy birthday to Laura!!

Photo by Marg Heslin: Adrienne (the Cake Lady) was so accomodating, we sent her photos of Orcas, Narwhals, and Dolphins and asked her for whatever she could do as we were not giving her a weeks notice-our first choice was a photo of Chantelle's (OrcaGirl)

---

Oh does that look DELICIOUS and I can taste it from here wow! Thanks Marg for letting me know about the cake!

Idea Wave: Mercury Project

2011-02-25T23:02:00.003-08:00

MERCURY – Listening to whales and connecting students

Steven Ness is presenting a talk at IdeaWave here in Victoria tomorrow at around 11:30am. Come check it out! http://ideawave.ca His talk is going to be about a new project he's starting called MERCURY, an inexpensive network of hydrophones with data centers in schools up and down the BC coast.

Scientist Has 'Snowball Fight' With a Killer Whale

2011-02-24T18:05:00.001-08:00

Scientist Has 'Snowball Fight' With a Killer Whale

Back in the Tank??

2011-02-24T12:29:00.001-08:00

Is SeaWorld safe for killer whale trainers?
One year after Dawn Brancheau's death, Tillikum kept at a distance; theme park says trainers allowed back in the water with whales

J1 Ruffles declared Missing

2011-02-22T14:35:00.001-08:00

Well-known Puget Sound orca 'Ruffles' is missing

Men rescue tangled orca

2011-02-18T23:39:00.000-08:00

Men rescue tangled orca

Orca Project: SeaWorld trainer Samantha Berg

2011-02-18T14:57:00.000-08:00

Exclusive Interview #3: Former SeaWorld trainer Samantha Berg and the Perils of Orca Captivity (part 1)

Seaworld's Debt

2011-02-16T16:38:00.003-08:00

Seaworld Has a Whale of a Debt in Their Financial Tank

"Seaworld alternately blames the bad economy and public reaction to the death of trainer Dawn Brancheau last year for it’s financial woes, and has taken steps to modify their shows in hopes of bringing back tourist dollars."

My question : How does this promote care for the oceans at all when it's about promoting captive animals that were disrespectfully ripped from their families and native habitats?!!!

Hope project

2011-02-16T12:51:00.001-08:00

Hope project
Originally uploaded by groo1

From the caption below the photo:

"Project Hope is the reconstruction of a female Orca CA-189 that washed up at Dungeness spit in Jan of 2002, The Port Townsend Marine Science Center and a staff of volunteers are putting her back together for public display after a new building addition is completed through donations. For more info or donations ptmsc.org"

Valentines Day ideas?

2011-02-13T02:00:00.003-08:00

Send a Salmon Valentine Here : http://www.salmonaresacred.org

Killer whales spotted again near Golden Gate Bridge | Brent Begin | Local | San Francisco Examiner

2011-02-12T23:02:00.000-08:00

Killer whales spotted again near Golden Gate Bridge | Brent Begin | Local | San Francisco Examiner

Rights of Non-Human Persons

2011-02-12T13:22:00.000-08:00

"Rights of Non-Human Persons" - Will This Help Free The Orca Whale 'Lolita' ?

Aluminum Orca-Pacific Northwest Coast design

2011-02-11T12:26:00.001-08:00

aluminum orca-Pacific Northwest Coast design
Originally uploaded by Nature Art Studios

Gorgeous~

Orcas in Ireland

2011-02-11T12:23:00.001-08:00

Record numbers of killer whales (Thanks to Allan on the OL board for this find)

Would Lolita remember her family?

2011-02-08T14:09:00.000-08:00

Orcas Feed On Manta Rays

2011-02-07T11:34:00.000-08:00

Rise Up

2011-02-05T01:06:00.001-08:00

Rise Up
Originally uploaded by Orcawizard

Death of Nami the orca

2011-02-04T01:42:00.002-08:00

(Video is disturbing)

This year the Orca Nami has died, you can read about it here Autopsy shows killer whale swallowed 80 kilograms of stones before death at aquarium

Canada, U.S. may restrict chinook salmon harvest to benefit killer whales

2011-02-02T19:23:00.000-08:00

Canada, U.S. may restrict chinook salmon harvest to benefit killer whales

New life for deceased and diseased orca in Port Townsend

2011-02-02T11:50:00.000-08:00

New life for deceased and diseased orca in Port Townsend

Orca Watcher: V4: A Universal Killer Whale Call?

2011-01-30T20:25:00.000-08:00

Orca Watcher: V4: A Universal Killer Whale Call?: "The Ways of Whales workshop today was successful, with over 100 people in attendance. There were some great talks: Brad Hanson talked about ..."

J's & K's on Jan 23

2011-01-26T12:55:00.004-08:00

Around 11 am on January 23 2011, I was alerted to the fact that killer whales were off Victorias waterfront. There have been orcas off of Victoria pretty much daily for a week now and continue to be sightings of resident and transient killer whales. This group was part of Jpod and 4 of Kpod that were traveling eastbound together. They stayed about a mile off shore however there were a few closer viewing opportunities including K21. A young calf exhibited active behavior; breaching, spyhopping and tail slapping. When a large ship passed close to the orcas there was active breaching (missed that shot) and tail lunging (see photo). Animals traveled in singles, pairs and three's but grouped up as they headed east nearing Trial Island. It was not long before a decent sized human crowd gathered at Clover Point to watch our neighbouring finned family pass by. Please see the photo set for more on that.

Researchers discover unique, vicious pack of orcas that preys on grey whales

2011-01-21T19:05:00.000-08:00

Researchers discover unique, vicious pack of orcas that preys on grey whales

Keto and Tilikum Express the Stress of Orca Captivity

2011-01-20T15:42:00.001-08:00

Keto and Tilikum Express the Stress of Orca Captivity

Malibu Times > News > Orca whales seen off Malibu's coast

2011-01-19T23:37:00.000-08:00

Malibu Times > News > Orca whales seen off Malibu's coast

Keiko the Untold Story

2011-01-19T11:40:00.000-08:00

http://www.keikotheuntoldstory.com

Orcas Love Sharks!

2011-01-18T12:36:00.002-08:00

Orcas off B.C.’s coast love the taste of shark But they’re wearing their teeth flat on the abrasive skin of the sleeper shark, study says

Saving Salmon

2011-01-11T11:36:00.000-08:00

Saving Salmon

For almost forty years, Alexandra Morton studied orcas near the northern tip of Vancouver Island. Those whales eat sockeye salmon. When Morton learned that these fish were endangered, she decided to save the salmon, in order to protect her whales.

Last fall, during an unanticipated and completely amazing run of Sockeye salmon, Paul Kennedy visited with Alexandra Morton near the shore of a feeder stream of the upper Fraser River, in Northern British Columbia.

Orphaned killer whale Springer turns 10 as her rehab deemed a 'complete success'

2010-12-22T22:58:00.000-08:00

Here is an article I think I missed postingOrphaned killer whale Springer turns 10 as her rehab deemed a 'complete success'

Ken Balcomb Weighs In On The Tagging Issue

2010-12-22T10:50:00.000-08:00

New article posted on the Center For Whale Research Blog.

Orphaned killer whale Springer turns 10 as her rehab deemed a 'complete success'

2010-12-21T21:34:00.001-08:00

Once-emaciated orca seen swimming with her new pod

Thank you Tommy Lee & Pam Anderson

2010-12-12T14:49:00.001-08:00

Tommy Lee Fires Back At SeaWorld

OrcaLab: Candles for Corky

2010-12-11T14:38:00.003-08:00

As received today;

Hello everyone,

Today, December 11th, is the 41st anniversary of Corky's capture. Tonight, at the hour she was taken away from her family and kin, we will mark this saddest day in Corky's life by lighting 41 candles for her, one for each year she has been deprived of her family and community. Please join us, by thinking about Corky today, and lighting a candle for her.

We have posted a story on our web site at OrcaLab News - December 11th 2010, 41 candles for Corky and are attaching it to this as a Word file. Please use it in any way you wish.

As ever, this comes with our thanks and best wishes to you all,

Paul & Helena

41 candles for Corky

Tonight, we’re lighting 41 candles for Corky. One for each year she has been deprived of her family and community. We think about her every day, admiring and marveling at the sheer tenacity of will that keeps her alive, despite her circumstances. Surrounded by concrete walls that endlessly echo her voice back at her, long absent of kin and close companionship, tolerant of the demands and impositions of her captors; she has endured. Corky’s endurance speaks to a mystery, a virtual miracle of being that defies comprehension. On the other side of the continent, Lolita’s lonely vigil, nearly as long, provokes the same thought: how, why?

Years ago, when Nelson Mandela was released from his tiny prison cell after 27 long years of confinement, and emerged with enough of his spirit intact to lead his people into an era of freedom, we took his success as a sign that Corky could succeed in resuming her life too, if she had the chance. We had no doubts then, partly because Corky’s mum Stripe was still alive, and the basics of orca biology told us the outcome was certain, provided only that Corky and Stripe could hear each other once again. Their joyous reunion was something we could easily imagine, but it was not to be. Stripe’s death in 2000 sadly removed that opportunity, but it did not take away our hope that one day, Corky would feel the ocean around her once more, and be embraced by the familiar voices of her family and community. Eventually, we concluded that the solution could be a kind of ‘retirement home’ where Corky would be cared for, including by Sea World staff. She would be in the ocean, albeit confined, and have opportunities to ‘visit’ with her family and community when they were in the vicinity. As an option, it has much to offer – a chance for Corky, and an ‘escape hatch’ for Sea World, who will surely feel the heat if Corky expires in their hands.

Corky is now 45 years old, give or take a year, so she is approaching the average longevity of female orcas who live in the waters of the Pacific Northwest. At this age, because averages reflect early deaths for various reasons, Corky’s wild female kin could look forward to many more years in the company of their family and community. These ‘post reproductive’ years can last for decades. Even our superficial understanding tells us that this time in orcas’ lives is rewarding for both ‘elders’ and their offspring, and that the interactions between them are useful and mutually rewarding.

For Corky, incredible survivor as she is, we remain hopeful that she will feel the ocean around her once more, and again hear the voices of the lives in whose heritage she is joined.

Please join us in our wish for Corky, and light a candle for her tonight.

Thank you.

Update on Morgan the captive orca

2010-12-10T02:19:00.000-08:00

http://www.freemorgan.com

Sadly Morgan will not be released into the wild

The Orca Project

2010-12-10T00:51:00.000-08:00

The Orca Project is committed to providing a look behind the scenes of the marine mammal captivity/entertainment industry, explore the legal and ethical issues and keep the pressure on our government oversight agencies.

http://www.theorcaproject.com

Air gun satellite tagging of killer whales

2010-12-07T11:49:00.003-08:00

There are actually two various styles of satellite tagging one that is deployed via suction cup onto the animal and one via air gun into the animal. I suppose an important question should first be asked; Do you agree with satellite tagging in general? and if so, do you agree with both methods or just one? Most of this post is addressing air gun tagging.

Articles written Dec 16, 2010

Tagging poses threat to orcas

Orcas not targets

An article written on Dec 11, 2010 that supports air gun satellite tagging;

Satellite Tagging of Southern Resident Killer Whales

More articles on the topic;

Satellite Tagging Of Southern Resident Orcas, Part Two: Is It Worth The Risk? Your Opinion Matters!

Should Satellite Tags Be Attached To The Endangered Southern Resident Orcas? Part One: The Tags

Here is some updated information as of Dec 10, 2010;

Invasive and Indiscriminate Tagging of Whales?

Satellite Tags on Southern Resident Orcas

Orca tags would track B.C. killer whales' routes

Earlier articles and posts via Tuesday Dec 7, 2010

Satellite Tagging Could Track Killer Whales in Winter ... but at Some Risk?

Airgun tagging of orcas: helpful or hurtful?

Satellite tagging of orcas proposed

You can read the proposal here;

Amendment to Permit No. 781-1824-01 to add takes of SRKW

(Transient killer whale T20 with airgun satellite tag © 2009 Maria Chantelle Tucker)

I am no scientist however a concerned citizen and long time whale watcher. What do you think of this? Even if it does benefit us with some data do we have the right to shoot (inflict) objects into other life for our own research needs? Are the answers to our own questions more important then that of respecting non invasive research? If tour and private boats are working to keep a distance from whales (guidelines) then shouldn't researchers too? Even still, these are very "watched" whales and perhaps where they go when they are out of human reach is not meant to be any of our business. There must be some level of privacy intact for these animals without humans impeding on all areas of their lives at all times. Please feel free to comment on this matter.

Comments may be submitted by by e-mail to NMFS.Pr1Comments@noaa.gov.
Please include File No. 781-1824 in the subject line of the e-mail comment.

Comment period on the permit will be extended to about Dec. 23. I will gather the poll results and added it to my submitted comments by Dec 23 (my birthday)!

Blog Post : Transient Predation

2010-12-05T17:22:00.000-08:00

Very amazing read: Brutal, Breath-Taking Beauty – Transient Killer Whales

VOTE FOR HUMPBACKS!

2010-12-02T14:56:00.013-08:00

(A humpback whale photo I documented in 07 in Johnstone Strait indicating entanglement scars under the tail fluke)

(A young humpback I documented in 06 in Johnstone Strait who had been previously injured, photos on display at the killer whale museum through this humpback whale project)

Please read about the project here in the Times Colonist!

VOTE (EVERYDAY FOR THE NEXT 10 DAYS AND PASS ALONG TO YOUR FRIENDS ON FACEBOOK): http://www.avivacommunityfund.org/ideas/acf5773

I must say that while having visited the north island on several occasions, I have witnessed and documented humpbacks who have been impacted by entanglements and boat strikes. My photos have been donated to this project in the past and hope that more people will help support this project that strives to assist the well being of these gentle giants who are returning in more numbers each year to live in our waters. Down here off Victoria, we have been so fortunate to have a growing community of humpbacks, some of which I have come to know over the years. They are very dear to my heart

Below is a message from one of the teams researchers;

Hello everyone!!

Thank you SO much to all of you who have supported us in the Humpback Comeback Project so far!! Thanks to your support, we were in the top 30 out of 528 projects, and we have moved on to the final round of voting!!!

For those of you who do not know, we (myself and some of my whale researcher colleagues) are in the running for $25,000 to support our research into one of the major threats to humpback whales in BC. Voting for our project could help ensure that we are able to continue our research into the problem of entanglement (whales getting caught in fishing gear)... so voting for us means you are helping to protect BC's humpback whales!

If you have been voting already... THANK YOU and keep voting!!! The final round opened today, and goes until December 15. You can vote once a day, for the next 10 days... so please vote EVERY DAY!!!

If you have not voted yet, this is how you do it:

1. Register at: http://www.avivacommunityfund.org/users/registration/profile
An e-mail will then be sent to you confirming your registration

2. Click on: http://www.avivacommunityfund.org/ideas/acf5773 (or the link below) once a day for the next 10 days to vote!!!

3. Spread the word!!! Please feel free to send information about our project and how to vote to any Canadians you know!! We are relying on the support of our friends, family, community, and colleagues to make this happen!

~ Christie

New poll about the southern resident killer whales

2010-11-13T16:48:00.001-08:00

I have added a new poll to the right ---> and wanted to get some of the public's feedback on the topic. You may or may not be aware of issues concerning the killer whales and there are plenty of links provided on this page should you wish to do your own investigation. Thanks for participating.

Orcas on the hunt ... for the perfect wave

2010-11-12T23:59:00.000-08:00

Surf's Up: An orca joins humans for a surf at Sandy Bay

Orca friendships & music

2010-11-09T14:13:00.004-08:00

http://www.la7.it/programmi/missione_natura/video-73834

Watch this amazing documentary (In Italian) about orca researcher Roberto Bubas relationship with the Argentinian orcas - these are the same orcas that launch themselves onto the beach when hunting seals. Amazing to see how they create a friendship with humans and respond to music. Amazing

Orcas on Discovery / Daily Planet

2010-11-01T13:16:00.019-07:00

So back in October, Zoologist and Captain Anna Hall and myself independently recorded a short interview about how passengers are educated while on whale watching boats and how they can help to protect killer whales and all marine life. The narrative was overlapped with footage I shot of southern and northern resident killer whales while aboard whale watching vessels during the 2010 season. Originally this was compiled and uploaded to a Discovery Channel website called "Film Snacks" which was a short environmental video festival with a variety of prizes to be won including being aired on national TV. At the time I was not concerned with the prize, I just wanted to fulfill the exercise and knew that at least people would see the video and hear our message.

I ended up recording the interview 2 days before the deadline and using new editing software the day that it was due. I ran into a variety of problems (that are unusual for me) such as exporting issues as well as audio problems. I had purchased a small clip microphone and turns out the voice track only recorded to one side, although in stereo this was still quite frustrating. But I pressed on and didn't give up. I spent 6 hours editing a 2 min video with a voice track. I was able to upload the video to the website on time (half an hour before the deadline keep in mind they are 3 hours ahead of us here in BC). So the video was uploaded and the waiting started, and for a while I actually was so busy I'd forgotten about the video until 2 weeks later when I received a call.

It was a total surprize to us, to have stumbled upon our clip being aired on national tv - it just happened to be by luck that Anna was home and caught it playing randomly on the tv! Please see the link below for the episode edit.

http://planetyou.discoverychannel.ca

and the film snacks full video version: http://filmsnacks.discoveryworldhd.ca

So the idea worked, the video got out there and many more people saw it. I learned that even though things aren't perfect they are important enough to be shared and this gave me hope and inspiration to do more. I later tweeted a thank you to the tv show and they tweeted back asking me to create more. So I will do another video - any ideas ?

Salmon are Sacred Vancouver

2010-10-29T23:58:00.043-07:00

(One of the Apod northern residents orcas with a Salmon off of Malcolm Island 2005. Taken from the Mackay Whale Watching boat)

This blog post is dedicated to the orcas and all the marine life I have come to know, without them, I never would have created this. To me, all life is sacred, and this event was an opportunity for me to celebrate that.

Please visit: http://www.salmonaresacred.org and http://www.wildsalmonpeople.ca for more information about this event.

Greeting the Salmon paddlers at Jericho Beach Vancouver, October 24, 2010

Rally at the Vancouver Art Gallery addressing the Cohen Commission on behalf of wild Salmon, Oct 25, 2010

Alexandra Morton speaks at the rally at the Vancouver Art Gallery

The winged Salmon and the crowd of the rally at the Vancouver Art Gallery

My photos of the events. Please note: photos may appear out of order.

As I was in Mexico for the last Salmon are Sacred migration in May, I was sure to be present at this event since I am in the area at this time. I took my first helicopter ride to Vancouver to witness and document the Salmon are Sacred in Vancouver. It was very inspiring to see such passionate people driven to help educate the world about the topic of wild Salmon and the importance of health for all. I also participated in a sub-project called "Suits for Salmon" which was a group of people who represented working professionals (wearing suits) taking a stance and being present on the issue. First and foremost I am a (sometimes abstract) media artist and a wildlife documentarian who has been documenting orcas and whales since 2003. Salmon is an important and main food source for the southern and northern resident orcas, and there is much concern for their survival as well. We all need wild Salmon, consider this to be the blood of our earth, so let's ensure their safety for years to come.

This is a very controversial topic, one that I don't claim to be an expert on however I am very concerned and I felt it was worth being there to see for myself, to witness the story, there is no harm in showing support for wild Salmon irregardless of how you feel on the topic at large, nor is there any harm in asking questions about the Salmon we all care about. We all have that right.

As I am also working on a variety of other projects including that of the butterfly, I felt it was a good opportunity to mix this up with the event so I purchased a pair of blue wings (representing the Morpho butterfly) and wore them as a sign of peace and transformation. I find working on the topic can be heavy for me, so bringing the butterfly with me reminds me to stay light, have fun and keep balanced. I wore a "GoPro" HD video head cam for the event as well which allowed me to run a "third eye" (Salmon fish eye view if you will - a 170 degrees coverage) view from my head while leaving the other two hands free for 2 other camera sources. This camera came in handy especially on the 25th when encountering heavy rains as it's housed in a waterproof casing. This allowed me to document the event while not using my more expensive HD video camera which I used to film the greeting ceremony on the previous day. In time I may add more media to this post as I ended up capturing many gigs of footage. I hope you enjoy this post.

Bonus video: My helicopter ride from Victoria to Vancouver. Footage is shaky due to high winds.

Shout outs to Anna Hall and Mika Ogilvie (of Prince of Whales) who made strong attempts to participate and inspired me while there. There are many other people who assisted me in fulfilling this event as well, their support ranged from minor to major but without them this would not have come together as it has. I thank all of them for this. Some of those names are; Markus Peronino, Kate Brauer, Kevin Smith (Maple Leaf Adventures), Vaysha Hirsch, Andre Todorovich, Elodie Joy Ramjheetun, Steven Ness & Jason Sneed (Although he is not here with us any more - his presence was strongly felt).

Salmon are Sacred Vancouver - be there!

2010-10-20T11:15:00.000-07:00

On Captivity

2010-10-17T20:42:00.001-07:00

An orca (slave) is born: Aren’t you happy? by Diane McNally

and

Natural Born Killers - They seem the friendliest and most sociable of creatures. But don't be fooled. These are predators at the very top of the food chain.

Mega L41 Breach

2010-09-20T19:22:00.001-07:00

Mega L41 Breach
Originally uploaded by orcagirl

A photo I captured last week while out on the Ocean Magic

Article on boat regulations

2010-09-19T19:48:00.000-07:00

Evolving rules in San Juans may change how visitors go whale watching

Haida Gwaii Spyhop

2010-09-19T01:51:00.001-07:00

Haida Gwaii Spyhop
Originally uploaded by Stef Olcen

Blog discussion about interactivity with Tillikum

2010-09-16T22:11:00.001-07:00

One of the key questions that I wasn’t able to resolve in Killer In The Pool was: given the fact that Tilicum had been involved in two previous deaths, and had been deemed unsuitable for waterwork and desensitization training, why was Dawn Brancheau lying down so close to him on a slideout following the Dine With Shamu show?

Did Dawn Brancheau Make A Mistake, Or Was SeaWorld Taking Risks With Tilikum?

Amazing whale art

2010-09-14T14:48:00.001-07:00

Whaleless

Mother Orca And Her Dead Calf: A Mother's Grief?

2010-09-11T21:28:00.001-07:00

The report that the Southern Resident orcas lost a calf came as sad news yesterday, compounding the disappointment of the losses to their fragile population this year - earlier losses included an older and well known female, two males in their prime, and another calf all of which failed to return this summer from the winter foraging. But what makes the news of this calf so heartbreaking is that the mother was observed pushing her dead baby around trying to carry it for hours, and may still be with it today.

Sumar at Seaworld dies

2010-09-10T15:39:00.001-07:00

SeaWorld Killer Whale Passes Away

Killer whale evolution leads to two orca species

2010-09-01T22:53:00.000-07:00

Orcas, commonly known as killer whales, are still evolving, and quickly.

Naming the southern resident orcas

2010-08-27T01:44:00.001-07:00

Incredible Lime Kiln Video

2010-08-26T00:24:00.001-07:00

Orcas: Be a Friend to the Whales

2010-08-22T19:27:00.000-07:00

More on Morgan

2010-08-19T14:47:00.001-07:00

Why Is Seaworld Interested In The Young Orca That Stranded In Dutch Waters?

Surfing Orcas

2010-08-16T23:56:00.001-07:00

Orcas pass Victoria Aug 13

2010-08-15T00:08:00.003-07:00

Please take a look at this amazing blog post from 5 Star Whales; Superpod, Superpod, J, K & L-pod together off Victoria!!! Aug 13th, 2010.

Awesome blog post

2010-08-14T14:44:00.000-07:00

The Passby I've Been Waiting For by Monika Wieland

She captured the essence of the Southern Residents as they passed by the San Juan Island shoreline last night. Everyone is saying it was the best whale experience so far this year. I was not out yesterday but am glad to have blogs like this to experience by!

Orcas hunt Minke Whale

2010-08-14T00:25:00.001-07:00

Orcas hunt minke whale off Newfoundland coast

Although it's natural, doesn't mean it would be easy to watch especially while on a whale watching tour, hard enough to watch it on video

Help Orca Lab / Orca Live

2010-08-12T12:55:00.001-07:00

We all want to see Orca Lab / Orca Live continue their awesome project which benefits everyone. To learn more about the project and how you can help to keep it running please visit this link:

OrcaLab is facing severe financial difficulties, and we are reaching out to our Community to help us overcome them. This is the first time we have made such an appeal.

Our hope is that people who value our work will be willing to make regular contributions that will collectively provide what we need.

http://orcalab.org/blog/?page_id=308

The (Hollywood) Whale aka Saving Luna

2010-08-10T20:30:00.002-07:00

Dear Friends of Luna,

We’ve got some huge news about SAVING LUNA: Hollywood superstars Ryan Reynolds and Scarlett Johansson have signed on as executive producers of a brand-new version of our film, called THE WHALE.

And on top of that, Ryan has recorded the new narration!

We have completely remade the film with added footage and whole new sequences, streamlined narrative, and its strong new voice. We’re proud of the original version, and proud of how it has brought a love for Luna to many parts of the world, and we believe these changes make the film even more accessible and appealing to audiences of ages everywhere.

So we are honoured to present, with Executive Producers Ryan Reynolds, Scarlett Johansson, and Eric Desatnik, THE WHALE.

Many thanks for being part of this long and fascinating journey with us. We invite you to help spread the word about THE WHALE as we prepare for the US release.

New Facebook page: ttp://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Whale-Movie/100544059995209

Twitter: @TheWhaleMovie

New website: www.thewhalemovie.com

Thanks again!

Suzanne Chisholm
Producer, THE WHALE

New Blog: Lime Kiln Research

2010-07-21T00:51:00.000-07:00

http://twmlimekilnresearch.blogspot.com/

This blog site is used by The Whale Museum researchers at Lime Kiln to post about research and other things of interest at Lime Kiln. Sometimes it will be little notes for ourselves to remember things of interest and other times we'll post things of interest to the general public.

Lolita at risk

2010-07-11T12:15:00.001-07:00

Endangered whale at risk as oil nears Miami, orca group says

Whales and humans linked by 'helpful grandmothers'

2010-07-02T15:02:00.001-07:00

Scientists have discovered an evolutionary reason why humans and whales both have grandmothers.