Killer whale (orca) conservation and management

Southern Resident breaching.
Photo by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (Permit 781-1824)

Killer Whales (Orcinus orca) are one of the most beloved species in Washington, but the endangered Southern Resident killer whales (SRKW) are struggling throughout their range due to a number of factors including vessel noise and disturbance, toxins, and lack of adequate prey availability. 

Conservation and regulations

  • Resources for boaters

    Boaters are required to stay 1,000 yards away from SRKW in Washington waters. Learn more about these regulations to protect SRKW.

  • Boater toolkit

    Access training and resources to help boaters follow the laws and conserve SRKW in Washington.

  • Orca conservation and biology

    Learn more about killer whales, their history in Washington, and what WDFW and partners are doing to conserve these icons of the Northwest.

  • Commercial whale watching licensing program

    Learn more about WDFW's commercial whale watching program and licensing process.