Amidst the San Juan Islands - an archipelago of more than 170 islands in upper Puget Sound - live several pods of orcas known collectively as the Southern Residents. Though the species is often referred to as "killer whales," this group of orcas eats fish, not marine animals. Scientists Kenneth Balcomb and Paul Spong are recording the movements of these incredible creatures, with the hopes that their findings will help protect future generations.About ExploreExplore is a philanthropic multimedia organization that makes documentary films and photographs to showcase extraordinary nonprofit efforts and leaders around the world.Through fact-finding missions to identify potential grant recipients, members of the Explore team see first hand where and how possible financial support might be used. Explore opens the door to a world most people never get to see - one that has been neglected by the mainstream media. Viewers meet the people affected by positive change catalyzed by philanthropy, and just as importantly, the leaders creating it.
Learning Questions
1. According to the film, what kind of species of animals is an orca?
2. According to Dr. Spong, how should we observe the orcas?
3. How do orcas communicate and find their food?
4. What is the main mission of Dr. Balcomb? How does Dr. Balcomb classify the orcas?
5. Why was J1 such an important orca? Approximately how many pounds of salmon does J1 eat daily?
6. Why is the film titled Orca Guardians?
SnagLearning is dedicated to presenting high-quality documentary films as educational tools to ignite meaningful discussion within the learning community.
