Inslee Statement on Suspected Death of Southern Resident Orca K-21

“I am saddened to hear the news that one of the 75 remaining endangered Southern Resident orcas, K-21 – a 35-year-old male – was seen this week emaciated and struggling off the coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The whales have been seen less and less frequently in Puget Sound, their usual summer home, a clear sign that the health of the Puget Sound ecosystem is not improving fast enough. K-21’s struggle highlights just how important it is that we all continue to do our part to give these iconic and beloved whales the best chance of survival”