Along the rugged, wild coast of British Columbia, Canada twenty-three different species of cetaceans (whales, dolphins, porpoises) and three species of sea turtles have been recorded. Unfortunately, eleven cetacean species and one sea turtle species found in BC are listed under the Canadian Species at Risk Act (SARA), threatened by human activities, reduced prey availability, and the lasting effects of historical whaling.

Observers report their opportunistic sightings of cetaceans and sea turtles, which provide us with valuable information about the temporal and spatial distribution of cetaceans along the BC coast.

The information collected by our observers is used to better understand the occurrence, habitat use and relative abundance of these animals- essential components for conservation

How will this data be used?
In addition to Recovery Strategies and Action Plans (required for listed species under the Species at Risk Act), the information collected is used in a variety of conservation and research projects, many of which focus on habitat mapping, environmental impact assessment and threat mitigation.

How Can You Participate?
Volunteer observers record the details of their cetacean sightings on the provided data sheet as they traveled the coast of British Columbia. Species identification guides will be provided and feedback/support from project staff is available.