Killer whales are one of the most beloved and recognized species on the planet. Not so long ago, they were considered nothing more than vermin and were feared, hated, hunted and harpooned. Nowadays, they are a protected species, swimming between mountainous coastal fjords and the expansive Pacific Ocean.
The coastal waters around Vancouver Island and the mainland are home to Canada’s most famous resident killer whale population, and these magnificent marine mammals are individually recognized and well-known by local residents and researchers.
On Tuesday, Nov. 20, join the Pender Harbour Wildlife Society as they welcome Jason Colby, author of Orca: How We Came to Know and Love the Ocean’s Greatest Predator. Orca features whales of Pender Harbour as well as several local interviews. This book is sure to be of great interest to historians, mariners, naturalists and local families. According to Annie Hall, a zoologist, the book contains “a wealth of information and tells the stories of the captive whales and the people who pursued, cared for and studied them – and ultimately fought for their freedom.”
From guns to cameras, the shooting of whales is examined. Colby reveals how we fundamentally changed the way we view the beloved cetacean today and the transformation of our relationship with the ocean and all its creatures.
Jason M. Colby, PhD, is Associate Professor of Environmental and International History at the University of Victoria, B.C. Born in Victoria and raised in the Seattle area, he worked as a fisherman in both Alaska and Washington. His summaries of natural and social histories of coastal waters are superb.
The meeting will be held at Pender Harbour Secondary School on Hwy. 101. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Presentation starts at 7 p.m. Admission is free and refreshments will be served. Orca will be available for purchase. For more information, email [email protected] or visit www.penderharbourwildlife.com
– Submitted by Carole Logtenberg
