Welcome to Episode 19 of the Prince of Whales Podcast! This week, we begin a two-part journey into the amazing world of orcas and their unique behaviors from across the globe. From the stormy Southern Ocean to the icy shores of Argentina and the busy waters off Spain, this episode explores how orcas showcase their culture, adaptability, and extraordinary intelligence.

Topics Include:
(0:39) Overview of global orca ecotypes – from the Ross Sea to the Falklands

(2:19) Why some southern orcas have a yellow colouration – and what causes it

(4:44) The mysterious Type D orca with the squished face and tiny eyepatch

(5:35) Beach-hunting orcas of Argentina and their family traditions

(8:36) Iberian orcas attacking boats: trauma, play, or protest?

(13:50) Type B orcas and their coordinate wave-hunting!

We’re only getting started. Tune in next week for Part 2, where we’ll explore more hunting strategies and incredible stories from the killer whales around the world!

Have a question or your own favorite orca fact? Send it to us at podcast@princeofwhales.com or drop us a message on Instagram. 🐋

Welcome to Episode 18 of the Prince of Wales podcast! This week, we dive into the colourful world of sea stars, one of the most iconic and ecologically important creatures in the Salish Sea. From their fascinating biology and regenerative powers to their recent decline due to sea star wasting disease, we explore everything you need to know about these incredible echinoderms.

(0:36) What species of sea stars live in the Salish Sea
(3:04) How sea stars eat—and digest their food outside their bodies
(5:26) Regeneration: how sea stars regrow arms and central discs
(11:03) The impact of sea star wasting disease and the decline of sunflower stars
(15:55) Why sea stars are so brightly coloured (hint: it’s not just for looks)

Sea stars are more than just tide pool treasures—they're apex predators, ecosystem engineers, and a key indicator of ocean health. This episode takes a closer look at their remarkable abilities and the conservation challenges they face.

Don’t forget to subscribe, and send us your questions at podcast@princeofwales.com or on Instagram. See you next week for Episode 19! ⭐️🌊

Welcome to Episode 17 of the Prince of Wales podcast! This week, we’re diving into one of the most dynamic and extreme environments on the planet—the intertidal zone. This unique ecosystem, where land and sea collide, is home to some of the most resilient and fascinating creatures on the coast of British Columbia.

(0:39) What is the intertidal zone, and why is it so important?
(3:21) Why is the intertidal zone considered one of the most productive ecosystems on Earth?
(4:45) What are some of the most common animals you’ll find here?(6:21) The extreme challenges of living in the intertidal zone
(9:13) Adaptations: How creatures protect themselves from predators and the elements(13:01) Our favorite intertidal creatures

The intertidal zone is teeming with life, from barnacles that seal themselves off to survive low tide to sea slugs that steal the defences of their prey. Whether you love tide pooling, marine biology, or just learning about ocean ecosystems, this episode is full of fun facts about an often-overlooked but crucial part of the marine world.

Don’t forget to subscribe and send us your questions at podcast@princeofwales.com or on Instagram. See you next week for Episode 18! 🌊🐚