* Some populations of killer whales are endangered: Specifically, the Southern Resident killer whale population in the Pacific Northwest of North America is listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act.
* Other populations are not: Other populations of killer whales around the world are not considered endangered, although some may be classified as threatened or vulnerable.
Here are some factors affecting killer whale populations:
* Loss of prey: Declining populations of salmon, a key food source for Southern Resident killer whales, is a major concern.
* Habitat loss: Pollution, noise, and habitat degradation affect killer whale populations.
* Climate change: Ocean warming and acidification impact prey availability and other environmental factors important for killer whales.
* Chemical pollution: Toxic chemicals in the ocean can affect killer whale health.
* Ship traffic: Noise and collisions with vessels can harm killer whales.
Therefore, while some populations of killer whales are in danger, the situation is complex and varies by region. It's important to stay informed about the status of specific populations and how we can help protect them.