June is Orca Action Month!

Here's Why It Matters More than Ever

June is Orca Action Month here in the Pacific Northwest. Originally established in 2006, this regional movement draws attention to one of our region's most iconic and endangered species: the Southern Resident killer whale (SRKW). Over the years, what began as an awareness campaign has become an urgent call to action.

Southern Resident killer whales were listed as "Endangered" under the Species at Risk Act in Canada in 2002 and the U.S. Endangered Species Act in 2005. The SRKW population numbers just 73 individuals, and despite decades of recovery actions, their population has not rebounded - a sobering reality that underscores the critical need for ongoing research, conservation, and community involvement.

Click here to learn about three major threats facing SRKWs - and how you can help address them! >>

Aerial images of Southern Resident killer whales taken during health research in September 2024: L90 and her new calf L128 surfacing (left) and J16 breaching (right). Images obtained using an octocopter drone flown non-invasively >100ft above the whales under NMFS research permit # 22306.

In order to increase foraging success for SRKWs, SR3's research results are shared with management groups - such as the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife - to help ensure that SRKWs have ample space to forage with minimal disturbance from vessels.

SR3's work directly contributed to landmark legislation mandating a 1,000-yard vessel approach distance to SRKWs in Washington waters beginning in January 2025.

Oscar the Sea Lion is Back - Thanks to You

A beloved sea lion, nicknamed Oscar by locals, returned to the area this year with concerning injuries to his face and jaw - a powerful reminder of the dangers marine animals face every day.

Our team administered a long-lasting antibiotic to Oscar in the field earlier this spring - a single moment that was the culmination of hours of planning, teamwork, and expertise.

Afterwards he made a hasty exit and wasn't seen for several weeks, until last month when he was spotted back at his usual dock!

Animals like Oscar can only get help because of people like you and this community that never gives up on them.

Oscar stretches out in the sunshine on his usual dock, after reappearing for the first time since his treatment in the field.

Thank you for being a lifeline for so many ocean neighbors like Oscar!

Click to read about Oscar's medical treatment in the field >>

Pupping Season Coming to a Shore Near You

Meet Orzo! Arriving at the Rescue Center on the afternoon of May 18th, this days-old pup marks the start of harbor seal pupping season.

The start of the harbor seal pupping season has arrived here in the Pacific Northwest. SR3's Rescue Center is already caring for three pups who arrived due to maternal abandonment, meaning they were separated from their moms before they were able to survive on their own in the wild.

Maternal abandonment can often happen due to human disturbance, if people or their pets get too close to these marine mammals as they rest on beaches.

To keep moms and pups together in the wild, please stay far away from marine mammals and keep your pets on a leash.

Join our Wavemakers monthly giving club to help care for Orzo! >>

Ocean Hero Highlights

We're nominated for Best in the PNW - and we need your support!

Voting is quick and easy (no signup required), and every vote brings more visibility to our mission.

Cast your vote daily in the nonprofit category here.(Click on "Services," then "Nonprofit Organization" and scroll to find us under "Sealife Response, Rehab, and Research.")

Voting closes Friday, June 27 at 5 p.m. - thank you for helping us raise awareness and grow our impact through this recognition!

We had a fantastic ocean cleanup with Seattle Dive Tours at the end of April!

Divers underwater and volunteers on shore ended up recovering 385 pounds of trash that was in, or on its way to, the ocean. 

Debris highlights include 450 cigarette butts, 100 fishing lures, 72 aluminum cans, 5 shoes, 4 cell phones, a shopping cart and an e-bike!

Looking for your next challenge and a way to help support marine wildlife in need? Join us at One Step Closer - an endurance race hosted by Orca Running and Evergreen Trail Runs, benefiting SR3!

Where: Lincoln Park, Seattle, WA
When: August 16, 2025
What: Tackle a scenic 2-mile loop as many times as you can in 3, 6, 12, or 18 hours - you set the pace!

Sign up today, go the distance for marine wildlife, and help us get one step closer to a healthier ocean!

Learn more and register here.