Searching for killer whales

VOLUNTEER HOMEPAGE

Welcome, Adventurers!

We’re thrilled you’ve joined the search for the Southern Resident Killer Whale J, K, and L pods — a rare opportunity to directly support the conservation of an iconic endangered species. By heading out on the Oregon coast and recording your observations, you’re providing scientists with the critical data they need to protect these whales for future generations.

This project is a collaboration with Oregon Shores, a nonprofit based in Oregon whose mission is to educate and empower people to protect our coastal ecosystems and communities, to collect data for NOAA’s Killer Whale Recovery Plan and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Endangered Species Management Plan.

What You’ll Do:

  1. Search for killer whales along the Oregon coast — from shore or up to 3 miles offshore.
  2. Record what you see (or don’t see!) in the Survey123 app.
  3. Share photos and videos to help scientists identify individual whales.
  4. Repeat!

How to Participate:

  1. Apply
  2. Complete the training
  3. Download the field protocol booklet
  4. Download the Survey123 app
  5. Start your Adventure!

APPLY TODAY

Training

Digital Protocol Book

Survey123

1. Download the Survey123 Application and Searching for Killer Whales Survey

Getting started is easy! Download the Survey123 app:

https://survey123.arcgis.app?itemID=1493156320e54b61832d77a7a7d72809

2. Download the Searching for Killer Whales Survey

Scan the QR code to download the Searching for Killer Whales survey:

3. Continue without signing in

When prompted, select “continue without signing in”. You’re all set — the survey is ready for your first observation!

Insider Tips

Taking photos and video simultaneously

Support

Need help? We’ve got you covered.

  • Browse the FAQ below for quick answers to common questions.
  • Email us anytime at orcas@adventurescientists.org.
  • Schedule a time for office hours to chat with our team and get your questions answered live.
  • Can’t remember your Volunteer ID? Look it up HERE

    FAQs

    What if I don’t see any Killer Whales?

    No worries! If you searched for at least 30 minutes, record your observation in the Survey123 app. Knowing where and when whales were NOT seen is just as valuable as sightings. And remember — you can always head back out another day to try again!

    Where should I search for Killer Whales?

    The entire Oregon coast is open for the search! You can observe from land or by sea (up to 3 miles offshore). Each week, we’ll send email updates highlighting priority areas where we still need data, so keep an eye out for those.

    How do I know my observations were submitted?
    Open the Survey123 app and check your “Sent” box in the Searching for Killer Whales survey. If any surveys are stuck in your Outbox or Drafts, we haven’t received your data yet.

    survey123

    What if my photos or videos are blurry?

    Do your best to capture the clearest images possible. Killer whales can be far offshore and move quickly. Start with a video — you can later grab the sharpest frame showing the saddle patch. We recommend using a telephoto lens. You can still submit blurry photos, but remember: the saddle patch is the key to identifying individuals, so aim for the best shot you can.

    Can I go into the field alone to collect data?

    We strongly encourage volunteers to head into the field with a partner.

    Not only is it safer, but most protocols are easier to complete with an extra set of hands. Having a field buddy is highly recommended.

    Need help planning your trip?

    Schedule a time during our office hours to chat with our team.

    What if my internet is not working when I'm uploading data in the field?

    No problem, our Survey123 app allows you to fill out the survey while offline and upload to our system once you regain internet or signal.

    Any other questions?

    Please email orcas@adventurescientists.org