Cook Inlet Beluga Whales and Anadromous Fish like Salmon, Eulachon, and Pacific lamprey

 

The Dena’ina people of south-central Alaska, including the Knik Tribe, have traditionally hunted, utilized, and traded anadromous (i.e., migratory) fishes and beluga whales, in the Cook Inlet estuary. However, climate change, anthropological stressors, and complex predator-prey relationships have endangered these resources which tribes have traditionally relied on for subsistence and cultural continuity. The Knik Tribe is a leading member in contributing to efforts to understand the population trends and social dynamics associated with Cook Inlet Beluga Whales (CIBWs) and anadromous fish to aid in species recovery. The CIBW was officially listed as endangered in 2008, though the drastic decline in population was noted by many as early as the 1990’s. A recent study on CIBWs, conducted by the Knik Tribe in collaboration with the Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Photo ID project, examined social structures, distribution patterns, and population estimates while gathering data on age, longevity, and reproductive health. Findings from this study suggest that CIBWs are reproducing less often, reproducing later in life, and experience shorter lifespans, indicating that a lack of prey may be a contributing factor to the species’ struggles. 

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Our newest project aims evaluate the past, assess current conditions, and predict future trends of CIBWs and anadromous fish by examining the ecological health and life histories of these species. We are collecting both Indigenous Knowledge and new data on beluga whales and anadromous fish, collating existing data, and analyzing and synthesizing these sources of information to determine how climate has affected these significant cultural and food resources. Focusing on beluga whales and anadromous fish like salmon, eulachon, and Pacific lamprey—which have sharply declined in recent years—the project is providing insights into the species' declines, with implications for both Tribal resilience and conservation efforts. Specific interest are being paid to the Pacific lamprey due to the minimal data we have on their populations and their potential importance to Cook Inlet Native Tribes. 

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Explore our links to posters and publications on previous research the Knik Tribe has collaborated on to identify CIBW population dynamics and trends. These resources have aided in the development of our newest study.