Whale Watching Operator Perspectives on Killer Whale Conservation and Behaviour

This thesis researched the perspectives of whale watching tour owner/operators working in waters adjacent to Vancouver Island, British Columbia and the San Juan Islands of Washington State, on killer whale conservation, biology and behaviour. The central focus was an examination of owner/operators and drivers views concerning the sustainable management of the killer whale population and the whale watching industry. Two methods were used to collect data: an internet based questionnaire answered by owner/operators and drivers and individual interviews with six whale-watch owner/operators for more detailed data. The data indicated that a significant number of operators and drivers see a need for enforceable regulations, effective monitoring and science based whale watching management.