Washington marks 50 years since last orcas were captured in US waters

March 7, 2026 marks 50 years since the “Budd Inlet Six” orcas were captured near Olympia, the last reported orca capture in U.S. waters. Olympia leaders declared the anniversary “Budd Inlet Six Commemoration Day,” highlighting how advocacy led to the whales’ release and renewed attention on the lasting impacts of captures on orca populations.