University of British Columbia study finds double summer chinook salmon for endangered southern resident killer whales, challenging the belief that salmon scarcity drives their decline.

A University of British Columbia study reveals that endangered southern resident killer whales have double the summer chinook salmon compared to healthier northern residents, challenging the belief that salmon scarcity drives their decline. Researchers indicate that any food shortages may occur at different times or locations, while factors like vessel noise may hinder their foraging ability. This suggests a need to reevaluate conservation strategies for this at-risk population.