Look, Friend, we don’t want to sound pessimistic because we are thrilled about the births of the two newborn orca calves in the Southern Resident killer whale pod.

But if we’re being honest, we’re worried. 69% of orca pregnancies end in miscarriage, and the mortality rate for newborn orcas is as high as 50%. In fact, it’s so common that these babies don’t survive, scientists don’t even name them until they have survived at least a year.

And right now, these endangered whales are already hanging on by a thread. On top of ocean acidification, global warming, and pollution, orcas are facing STARVATION and MALNUTRITION because corporate overfishing and bycatch is depleting Chinook salmon populations that these beloved whales depend on for food.

If the two newborn Southern Resident orca calves are going to make it through their first year, we urgently need to restore their critical food source. That’s why we’re calling on the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) to rein in greedy industrial fishing companies immediately — but we need your help if we’re going to apply enough public pressure. Will you help ensure the survival of the two newborn orca calves by signing our petition by 11:59 P.M. tonight?

Before industrial overfishing and bycatch contributed to the loss of 159 salmon populations, the Pacific Northwest waters were once flowing with abundant food for orcas.

Now, after the loss of almost HALF of the historic salmon runs, these endangered whales are struggling to survive. In fact, the Southern Resident orca population is currently at its LOWEST point since the 1970’s, and experts predict that these beloved sea animals could be EXTINCT within the next few decades.

But there’s still hope, Friend. When activists like you speak up on these critical issues, federal agencies like NMFS take notice. So today, we’re asking for your voice to urge NMFS to hold greedy fishing corporations accountable so that the two newborn Southern Resident orcas have a fighting chance at survival. Please don’t let them starve to death before their lives have even begun. Sign the petition now while there’s still time left >>

Thanks for helping save endangered orcas,
Friends of the Earth