Tofino(56)

This week has brought news of the return of the Southern Residents to the Salish Sea!

However upon their return SR³ - Sealife Response, Rehabilitation & Research observed two year old Tofino (J56) in bad health. SR3 first became concerned with Tofino’s health last fall as the calf appeared pale and undersized. An assessment of her body condition showed a decline bordering on a “poor” rating. Since sighting her again this week her paleness has not improved, and her body condition has further declined, now designating her in “poor” condition.

Based on the assessment of her worsening condition, WDFW adopted an emergency rule to designate J56 as vulnerable. This designation means that commercial whale watching boats will not approach J56 or the group she’s traveling with and ALL mariners are advised to do the same.

Photos of J Pod making their way to the mouth of the Fraser River

Photos by: Zoe Molder & Izzy Deutsch

This Labour day long weekend with more boaters on the water and J56’s condition, it is now more important than ever to give whales space. Maintain a minimum 400m/400yrd distance, a speed bellow 7kts within 1km/0.5nm and refrain from fishing within 1km/0.5nm. If you see J-pod on the water we advise against viewing so that J56 and her family can recover in peace.

For more information on J56 and the new Washington rule click here.