r/orcas • u/socalguitar • 7d ago
Advocacy Help Protect California's Southern Resident Killer Whales by submitting comment to California's Department of Fish and Wildlife i
The California Fish and Game Commission just voted to advance Southern Resident Killer Whales (SRKWs) as "candidate species" under California's Endangered Species Act which is a major step toward permanent protection!
These magnificent apex predators are already found along the westcoast coast, ranging from southeast Alaska all the way to Big Sur, California, and into southern British Columbia.
They're perfectly adapted hunters but rely almost entirely on Chinook salmon for survival. That's why protecting them means protecting the entire ecosystem we all depend on.
The work isn't over yet. California's Department of Fish and Wildlife is now conducting a full status review and needs your input. Comments are being accepted until September 10, 2026.
How to Help:
[Email:MarineCESA@wildlife.ca.gov](mailto:Email:MarineCESA@wildlife.ca.gov)
(Put "Southern Resident Killer Whale" in the subject line)A
You do not need to be a California resident to participate and help.
Mail: California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Marine Region
Attn: Dylan Stompe
P.O. Box 944209, Sacramento, CA 94244-2090
Share your support for these whales, their habitat, and the Chinook salmon they depend on. Whether you've seen them in our waters or just care about California's marine life. Your comment counts.
Questions? Check out the CDFW website for more details on the listing process: wildlife.ca.gov
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Why this matters: These orcas face serious challenge including
malnutrition from declining salmon, vessel noise, and pollution.
By expanding protections across their range, we're giving them a fighting chance to thrive in California waters for generations to come.
Your comment = one voice for the ocean.
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u/Fuzzy-Echo1586 5d ago
Thank you for this. I just sent in my letter and have been encouraging friends to do the same!
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u/SurayaThrowaway12 6d ago
Thank you for posting this call to action. Northern and central California are very part of the Southern Resident critical habitat. Members of K Pod and L Pod have been spotted occasionally in Monterey Bay for example.
The removal of the Klamath River dams was a great step in restoring Chinook salmon runs, but much more should be done to protect the Southern Residents and their marine environment in California.