Science Pub Portland: The Family That Preys Together: An Introduction to Killer Whales Around the World
With Robert Pitman, marine ecologist, affiliate faculty with Oregon State University’s Marine Mammal Institute, whose primary focus has been whale and dolphin distribution, ecology, and conservation.JULY 11, 7-9PM | Doors @ 6PM | Advance tickets recommended; $5 suggested donation
With its black-and-white designer paint job on an elegantly designed, 8-ton, 25-foot chassis, the killer whale is arguably the most recognizable (and perhaps beautiful) animal species that lives in the sea. It is also the top marine predator, capable of preying upon any large animal that swims in the ocean. Once feared and reviled by mariners and the public, killer whales are now known to be highly intelligent, intensely social creatures that can live human lifespans. Scientists have learned much about their ecology and behavior in the past 50 years, as the public perception of this species has morphed from sea monster and aquarium spectacle to marine conservation symbol and animal rights icon. Bob Pitman will review some of the highlights gained from research on this magnificent beast based on studies conducted around the world.
Robert Pitman has been a marine ecologist since 1976. During that time, he has participated in over 150 scientific research cruises in all the oceans of the world, published some 150 papers in the peer-reviewed literature, and co-authored two editions of Marine Mammals of the World. In addition to scientific articles, Bob writes for popular media and is a regular contributor to Natural History magazine. His research has spanned diverse topics, but his primary focus has been whale and dolphin distribution, ecology, and conservation. He is a world expert on beaked whales, was a member of the expedition that chronicled the extinction of the Yangtze River Dolphin and has continued to be closely involved in efforts to prevent extinction of the vaquita. Since 2003, a primary focus of Bob’s research has been the ecology of killer whales. He has led efforts to describe five different “ecotypes” of killer whales from the Southern Ocean, one or more of which are likely to be distinct species, and has studied killer whale predation in Antarctic, temperate, and tropical waters. Bob worked for NOAA for 40 years and is currently an Affiliate of Oregon State University’s Marine Mammal Institute.
Zoom Option
If you are unable to join us in person, you can watch on zoom. You must register in advance using this link. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Check out the FAQs below for answers about food options, parking, etc.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We have answers! Explore frequently asked questions. For more information please contact us at sciencepub@OMSI.edu or (503) 797-4000.
If you are unable to join us in person, you can watch on zoom. You must register in advance via the link above. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
To guarantee a seat at this event, we recommend you purchase your ticket in advance. Please show your ticket at the check-in table in front of the theater upon arrival.
We will always have tickets available at the door. They are first-come, first-served and admission will remain a suggested donation.
Yes, OMSI’s restaurant, Theory will be open with pizza and salads. The bar will be open to guests that are 21+. No outside food or drink is allowed.
Beginning in June, the parking situation is changing and there could be a small fee.
