orca conservancy

Orca Conservancy, originally founded as the Tokitae Foundation in 1996 and renamed in 2000, is dedicated to the recovery and protection of the Southern Resident killer whales and their critical habitat. Our organization was initially focused on efforts to return Tokitae, also known as Lolita, to her home waters. As the plight of the Southern Resident population became increasingly dire, Orca Conservancy expanded its mission to encompass broader conservation efforts. Over the years, we have played a pivotal role in advocating for the Southern Residents, including their designation as an endangered species and the successful rescue and reintroduction of A73 “Springer” to the Northern Resident population. Today, our work is multifaceted, addressing the complex array of threats facing these orcas, from lack of prey and pollution to vessel noise. We engage in research, legislation, community outreach, education, and a range of projects aimed at safeguarding critical habitats and advocating for effective conservation measures. Collaboration is at the heart of our approach, and we actively partner with local organizations, businesses, researchers, and political leaders to achieve meaningful solutions that benefit both the Southern Resident orcas and local communities. Together, we are committed to preserving this unique population and ensuring a healthy marine ecosystem for future generations.