06/16/2026
In 1970, dozens of orcas from the Southern Resident population were captured at Penn Cove on Whidbey Island. Several died in the process. One — known as Lo**ta, or by her Indigenous name Tokitae — was sold to the Miami Seaquarium, where she lived for over five decades.
Her story became a rallying point for marine mammal protection advocates worldwide. The movement that grew around her and other captured orcas helped shape the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 — landmark federal legislation that is still in effect today.
Tokitae passed away in 2023, before she could return home to the Salish Sea. But her name — and the movement she inspired — lives on in Washington waters.
The PNW has a deep, complicated, and ultimately hopeful relationship with these animals. 🖤🤍
Did you know this piece of Washington history? 👇
