Terms of Reference

2018 Report on the Northern Resident Killer Whale annual census

Science Response Process – Pacific Region

February 2019
Nanaimo, BC

Chairperson: Sean MacConnachie

Context

Northern Resident Killer Whales (NRKW)  are currently designated as ‘Threatened’ under the Species at Risk Act, due to their small population size, low reproductive rate, and the existence of several anthropogenic threats that are likely to impede on-going population recovery or cause future population declines (Fisheries and Oceans Canada 2018). A long-term photo-identification study of NRKW has been conducted by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) since 1973. Each year, extensive field effort is undertaken to find as many members of this population as possible and note their reproductive status and health condition. DFO Science Branch has been asked to review the available data and methods and to provide a summary of the annual abundance estimate of the NRKW population, including the number of births and deaths as well as a breakdown of the population structure (sex and ages within each clan).

Objective

The following science response will be reviewed and provide the basis for discussion and advice on the specific objectives outlined below.

DFO. 2018. Annual Northern Resident Killer Whale Census Report. CSAP Science Response  2019SCI01

The specific objectives of this review are to:

1. Provide an annual census of Northern Resident Killer Whales including populations size and demographics
2. Include an overview of the methods used to conduct the census

Expected Publications

• Science Response

Expected Participation

• Fisheries and Oceans Canada -Ecosystems and Oceans Science
• Other invited experts

References

Fisheries and Oceans Canada. 2018. Recovery Strategy for the Northern and Southern Resident Killer Whales (Orcinus orca) in Canada. Species at Risk Act Recovery Strategy Series, Fisheries & Oceans Canada, 4 Ottawa, x + 84 pp.