We are devoted to protecting all whales & the environments essential to their survival.

For over two decades, we have worked to learn all that we can about the lives and needs of whales through dedicated research projects, coast-wide initiatives, and long-term partnerships.

The more we understand about whales, the better we can advocate for positive measures of protection that are rooted in science. Here we unite research, conservation efforts, and public education.

Research

From hydrophones and drone technology to coastal marine and land based surveys, BC Whales conducts comprehensive research and studies the nutritional, acoustic, and social needs of whales. We are grateful for the support of our research partners.

Connect

Our work began over two decades ago with two people, a boat, and the philosophy of immersing to learn. We live among whales in remote regions of the BC coast to understand their unique needs, behaviours, and acoustic traditions.

Protect

Join us in our mission to preserve the natural habitats of our ocean’s most magnificent creatures. Together, we hope to build a future where whales thrive in a healthy and balanced marine environment, ensuring their presence in BC waters for generations to come.

Research Projects & Collaborations

BC Whales conducts collaborative non-invasive research spanning the entire coast of British Columbia from the Great Bear Rainforest to the Salish Sea. Learn more about our acoustic monitoring, land-based, and coastal marine surveys research below.

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Support Our Work

Your generous donation directly support our research and conservation efforts.

Media & Publications

  • Published On: October 3, 2020

    Resting Whales

    This phenomenon is known as unihemispheric slow-wave sleeping. When we sleep, we are able to do so for many hours at a time since we rely on our ability to breathe involuntarily. Whales on the other hand have to think about every breath they take.

    Janie Wray

  • Published On: August 15, 2020

    Getting Ready for Whales

    It was quite an honour when we were asked to carry on with our research and invited in, though with limited contact within the community. Their concern with Covid19 and the possibility of the virus spreading is a genuine concern.

    Janie Wray

  • Published On: July 27, 2020

    Fjordic Fin Whales

    The fin whale is an extraordinary species. The second largest animal on earth (ever), incredibly fast, frustratingly elusive, breathtakingly graceful, and unimaginably voracious. But it is the fact of the fin whale’s presence here, in the fjords of Northern BC specifically, that ignites my scientific imagination. Their use of these inland channels goes against everything we thought we knew.

    Eric M Keen

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