Orcas

Killer whales, also known as orcas, are distributed throughout the marine waters of Washington. Four populations are recognized and are referred to as southern residents, northern residents, transients, and offshores. Among these, southern resident and transient (also known as Bigg's) killer whales commonly are found in Puget Sound.

Please see our killer whales topic page for more information. 

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Cover of the Pacific Whale Watch Association 2025 Sightings and Sentinel Actions report, featuring a photograph of a breaching killer whale.

Pacific Whale Watch Association 2025 Sightings and Sentinel Actions

The Pacific Whale Watch Association (PWWA) is a community of ecotourism professionals with a shared commitment to education, conservation, and responsible wildlife viewing in Washington state and British Columbia. The 2025 PWWA annual report summarizes wildlife sightings and sentinel actions logged by members throughout the year. Sentinel actions are protective measures taken by professional whale watchers, such as warning vessels near whales or removing marine debris.
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