Re: “Death of breeding male orca worries scientists,” April 14.
Are endangered orcas being studied to death?
The recent death of orca L95 has led the U.S. responsible parties to halt all tagging pending a review.
Four days after tagging penetration, the researchers saw L95 and others with ribs that were visible. They should not have caused stress and put him at any risk. Also, U.S. authorities agree that satellite tag penetration can cause pathways for infection from viruses and bacteria.
It has now come to light that two other orcas died shortly after being satellite tagged and seven orcas have metal pieces from the tags still embedded in their sensitive bodies.
There must also be a review of skin biopsies. Researchers conduct extremely close pursuits, then shoot a biopsy dart into an orca. It has been observed that the orcas have shaken with fear (dorsal fins quivered). In one case, the two offspring of their darted mother shook with fear.
In the 1990s, Lifeforce raised the issue of shooting orcas with darts in the San Juan Islands. The proposed study did not move forward, but later, other researchers started using biopsy darts.
These skin biopsies could also cause pathways for toxic pollution, bacteria and viruses to infect orcas. An investigation should include any deaths of those orcas who were biopsied.
I hope a thorough review of cumulative research will put an end to inhumane satellite tagging and skin biopsies.
Peter Hamilton
Founding director, Lifeforce
Vancouver
