Status of the False Killer Whale, Pseudorca crassidens, in Canada

Abstract

The false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens) occurs at the northern limits of its range and is rare in Canadian waters. There are 23 confirmed records, totalling 10 occurrences from British Columbia, but none are reported from the east coast of Canada. General biology, world-wide status and management are reviewed. Little information is available on stocks or population estimates, but the species is not uncommon world-wide. The false killer whale is taken in small numbers in whaling and incidentally in fisheries. Strandings occur frequently and may significantly affect the levels of local populations. The effects of long-term degredation of its environment and subsequent impact on its populations are potentially serious and should be monitored.