Killer Whales Learn to Speak Dolphin

Are killer whales multilingual?  A new study from the Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute has found that captive orcas kept with bottlenose dolphins adopt the signature clicks and whistles of their tank mates. But some scientists question claims made in the paper that this knowledge can benefit endangered orca populations in the wild.

http://tinyurl.com/krf98du

Elephants, Killer Whales, and Exercise

The lives of orcas and elephants are remarkably similar, unhappily so in those areas where they interface with humans. Both have been hunted and captured, both are forced to perform tricks and live in unsuitable enclosures.

http://tinyurl.com/ktn9bo4

Too Few Salmon Is Far Worse Than Too Many Boats for Killer Whales

Not having enough Chinook salmon to eat stresses out southern resident killer whales in the Pacific Northwest more than having boatloads of whale watchers nearby, according to hormone levels of whales summering in the Salish Sea.

http://tinyurl.com/ca6dmtz