2023 was an encouraging year for sightings of some whale species, according to the Pacific Whale Watch Association (PWWA) and Orca Behavior Institute (OBI). The PWWA represents ecotourism companies and tracks sightings of marine mammals spotted while on the water. OBI collects year-round data on killer whales "in the Salish Sea and beyond." According to the groups, whale sightings showed a record-breaking number of Bigg's orcas throughout the Salish Sea of British Columbia and Washington state. Bigg's orcas feed on sea lions and seals, which rebounded after programs to reduce their populations were eliminated. Full story: https://www.king5.com/article/tech/science/environment/orcas/biggs-killer-whale-sightings-increase/281-06cb724a-2354-4203-abc4-d8dfbbf38908