Southern resident killer whales out, Bigg’s in, according to new data

New research from the Whale Museum in Friday Harbor shows a significant shift in killer whale populations in the Salish Sea and Puget Sound. Data from 1978 to 2022 reveals that Bigg’s killer whales are increasing in frequency while endangered southern resident killer whales are declining, with August 2026 recording 320 Bigg’s sightings and zero southern resident sightings. Experts believe rising seal populations may fuel Bigg’s presence, while vessel noise and changing salmon runs may impact southern residents.