Researching & Protecting Whales
along the bc north coast
Our Lifelong Dedication to Conservation
We are devoted to a lifetime commitment to uphold the balance between all whales and the environment essential for their survival. This is being accomplished through research and partnerships that allow us to share with you, all that we can learn from these majestic whales.
Join us in our mission to preserve the natural habitats of our ocean’s most magnificent creatures. Here, we unite research, conservation efforts, and public education to ensure these gentle giants continue to thrive.
Each contribution fuels groundbreaking studies, vital conservation efforts, and impactful educational programs that forge a brighter future for British Columbia’s whales and their marine habitat.
About BC Whales
This project began 22 years ago with two people, a boat and the philosophy that if you put your heart and soul into something you truly believe in, anything is possible.
Our Research
From hydrophones, drone technology, coastal marine surveys and land based surveys, BC Whales provides comprehensive research and study of whale nutritional, spatial, acoustic and social needs.
Sponsor a Whale
The return of humpback whales to our research area has been dramatic. By sponsoring a whale, you protect British Columbia’s whale populations for future generations.
BC Whales is dedicated to four types of research, hydrophones, drones, land-based surveys and coastal marine surveys. These are completed across the BC Pacific coast from the Great Bear Rainforest to the Southern Gulf Islands.
Hydrophones
Drones
Land-Based Research
Coastal Marine Surveys
News & Publications
Collecting baleen whale blow samples by drone: A minimally intrusive tool for conservation genetics
Collecting exhaled breath condensate, or respiratory ‘blow’ samples, from baleen whales using an unoccupied aerial system (UAS) plays a vital role in informing conservation efforts.
We’re in the News
Our research is featured by many international reputable sources.
Whale Tales from the Pacific Coast
For What’s to Come
Arriving with Whales
Family Ties
The BC Whales field team hear the A-clan resident orca family in Squally Channel and head to find them.
To Wake a Sleeping Whale
In Lewis Passage, the BC Whales team discover a sleeping humpback whale in the path of a large cruise ship.
Lost in the Moment
The BC Whales field team awaken to bubble net feeding calls from Humpback whales right in front of the Fin Island Research Station.
Transient Orca Food Sharing
The BC Whales field team observe transient orca from land, from a boat, and from the air.
Resting Whales
At the Fin Island Research Station, the team awakens to the sound of Yoda the humpback whale.
Getting ready for whales
The research team arrives on Fin Island, our remote research station.
Fjordic Fin Whales
The mystery of Fin Whale presence within the inner fjordic waterways of the BC Coast.
The A30 orca family
Listening to whale vocalizations in the early morning at Orcalab.