- Coastal development, pollution, and overfishing are destroying Orca habitats and depleting their food sources around the world.
- The waters where Orcas live are constantly being polluted by industrial and agricultural runoff, human waste, and oil spills.
- This pollution can cause disease in the Orcas and make it difficult for them to find food.
- When Orcas lose their habitat, they are more likely to come into conflict with humans, leading to further conflict.
2. Overfishing
- Orcas primarily feed on fish and marine mammals, many of which have seen a decline in their population due to commercial fishing.
- When fishing vessels target the prey of Orcas, it directly affects their ability to find enough food, subsequently impacting their survival.
- Orcas that feed on salmon and other fish are sometimes seen entangled in fishing gear or struck by fishing vessels, leading to injuries or death.
3. Noise pollution
- Orcas use echolocation to navigate, hunt, and communicate.
- Vessel traffic, seismic surveys, and other human-generated noises can interfere with these natural abilities, making it difficult for them to find food and communicate.
4. Chemical contamination
- Pollution from industrial activities, agricultural runoff, and wastewater plants can introduce harmful toxins into the environment.
- Orcas are apex predators and can accumulate high levels of toxins in their bodies through consuming contaminated prey.
5. Capture for entertainment
- Orcas have been captured and held in captivity for entertainment purposes in marine parks and aquariums.
- The capture of Orcas from the wild can disrupt social structures and families and negatively impact their well-being in confined environments.
6. Climate change
- Ocean warming, caused by climate change, can affect Orcas by altering the distribution and abundance of their prey species.
- Changing sea ice conditions in polar regions, where some Orca populations reside, can also impact their access to food and suitable habitats.