A comprehensive introduction to marine mammals (cetaceans, pinnipeds, sirenians and additional members of carnivora), with emphasis on species living locally in the Salish Sea. This includes an overview of taxonomy, communication, life history, ecology, behaviour, conservation, and stewardship, particularly as they relate to the local marine mammal populations. The cultural importance of marine mammals will be considered from both Indigenous and Western perspectives. Students will gain hands-on experience with a number of commonly-used research methods in the form of workshops.