Threats

Populations of whales, dolphins, porpoise and sea turtles that inhabit British Columbia waters have experienced dramatic changes since the population of industrial humans expanded here in the 1800s. Prior to this, coastal First Nations likely had a minimal impact on these populations, even though certain whale and porpoise species were hunted for food and ceremonial reasons.

Whaling had a significant impact on large cetaceans in BC waters, and similarly, captures for aquaria severely reduced populations of killer whales. These factors are the main reason that many species of cetaceans in B.C. are now at risk for extinction, and current and emerging threats have an even more harmful impact on these species.

Threats to whales, dolphins, porpoise and sea turtles:

Whaling
Food supply
Toxins
Entanglement
Collision with vessels
Depredation
Boat disturbance
Noise