TAHLEQUAH IS ON HER GRIEF TOUR #2
Image Credit: NOAA Fisheries, taken under NMFS Permit #27052.
ARE WE LISTENING?
In 2018, Tahlequah (J35) captured hearts worldwide, symbolizing the struggles of the entire SRKW population. She carried her deceased calf for 17 days, traveling over 1,000 miles in a profound display of grief.
Now, 8 years later, in a heartbreaking repeat, Tahlequah has lost another calf (J61) and is once again seen carrying her body through the waters of the Salish Sea.
2018 Governor Response: Orca Task Force
Washington’s then Governor Jay Inslee established the Southern Resident Orca Task Force in March 2018. There were a total of 75 Southern Residents.
The task force's mission was to develop a comprehensive plan to save these iconic creatures from extinction.
Key goals:
Increase Chinook salmon abundance
Decrease disturbance from vessels and noise
Reduce exposure to contaminants
Address impacts of climate change
2025 FROM TALK TO ACTION: URGENT NEED FOR CHANGE
Despite the task force’s talks and recommendations, the situation remains dire:
We’re down to 73 southern resident orcas
Their primary food source wild chinook salmon populations continue to decline
69% of southern resident orca pregnancies end in miscarriage
4 orcas died in 2024
Direct Impact actions:
Actively collaborate to breach (not remove) first dam in 2026
Limit vessel traffic in Puget Sound waters
Reduce use of contaminants
Address impacts of climate change on wild salmon and orca