||| FROM KING-5 TV |||
An orca species unique to the Northwest and closely connected to indigenous populations is struggling to survive.
The Southern Resident Killer Whales, or SRKW, currently have a population of 74 whales — a number expected to drop by one in the upcoming census, according to the Orca Conservancy.
Southern Residents have struggled due to the loss of Chinook salmon population and pollutants in the waters they call home, but whale rounds-up of the 60s and 70s were the first issue to have a negative impact on the population.
Local tribes consider the Southern Resident orcas family, Raynell Morris said, and are impacted by the same issues the resident orcas face.
“They’re starving for salmon. We’re starving for salmon. They’re unhealthy because of the water. We’re unhealthy because of the water,” Morris said. “And now we’re at an all-time point of extinction for them as a population, as a people, as our relatives.”
The Lummi tribal elder uses a spot at Cherry Point Beach overlooking the Strait of Georgia to pray and connect with her ancestors. Directly behind the beach is an ancient burial spot of the Lummi people. However, the prayers here include non-human relatives too.
“We love you. We know you’re starving. We hear you,” Morris repeated.
