A scientist studying Southern Resident Killer Whales is using a unique approach to collect crucial samples of the endangered species’ feces. Deborah Giles, a research scientist with the Seadoc Society, relies on her dog Eba to pick up samples of killer whale feces. This non-invasive method allows her team to study the whales without disrupting their behavior.
The Role of Eba
Eba, a dog rescued from the streets of Sacramento, has become an essential part of Giles’ research. Giles explains, “She’s been trained to pick up the scent of whale poop using a previously collected sample. I teach her to associate it with playtime.”
- Training Method:
- Eba is trained using a scent sample.
- She is rewarded with play when she successfully finds the scent.
Research Techniques
The research team employs drones equipped with cameras and sensors to capture images and data on individual whales without disturbing them. These images are then used alongside the feces samples collected by Eba.
Giles will be speaking at Ocean Week Victoria about her work studying Southern Resident Killer Whales through non-invasive methods, such as analyzing their feces for toxins and hormone levels. Her research aims to better understand these endangered creatures without putting them at risk.
Importance of Fecal Analysis
By collecting killer whale feces samples, Giles gathers valuable information that would be difficult or impossible to obtain through other means.
- Key Insights from Feces:
- Diet: “Whale poop can tell us what they’re eating,” Giles noted.
- Health Indicators: It can also reveal diseases or infections.
- Mercury Tracking: The research involves tracking mercury levels in fish consumed by Southern Residents based on findings in their stool samples.
Hormonal Analysis
Analyzing hormones, such as testosterone, can help researchers determine whether male whales are reproducing normally or if there are reproductive health issues that could impact population recovery efforts for these critically endangered animals.
- Population Concerns:
- Giles emphasizes the need for more males to ensure breeding success, stating, “We know that there aren’t enough males available for breeding because we don’t have enough females who are producing calves.”
Collaboration and Community Engagement
Giles collaborates closely with local First Nations communities and Parks Canada staff who monitor Southern Resident populations from boats along British Columbia’s coastlines.
Upcoming Presentation
Giles will discuss her research during Ocean Week Victoria, which takes place from 6-9 p.m. at Royal Roads University campus. The event will also feature presentations from several other researchers working on marine conservation projects, including Drs. John Reynolds, David Welch, and Chris Harley.
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