Puget Sound Orcas Officially On
Endangered Species List

Thursday, February 16, 2006
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - One of Washington's most beloved animals is on the endangered species list.

Starting Thursday, Puget Sound Orcas now have the highest protection under the law.

"It's more than just an announcement," says Kathy Fletcher, founder of People for Puget Sound, "it's a commitment to do what it takes to save them."

It's not good news but Fletcher says the listing is a step in the right direction.

The Orca population has steadily declined: in the 1960's scientists estimate 125 Orcas lived in Puget Sound. Today there are just 89 whales.

To save the whales, the federal government says we must save their home -- what scientists call 'critical habitat' that may include the San Juan Islands and possibly the waters off Vashon and Maury Islands.

"The way to save the whales is to stop doing the things that hurt them and also to start putting the system back together again. We need to restore the habitat and protect it," says Fletcher.

The Orca population has been shrinking for 40 years. Putting them on the endangered list is just the first step in what will be a decades-long effort to make sure they survive.

Source: KOMO 4 News