As the coastal waters of the archipelago became ice-free and the rocky shoreline was exposed by retreating glaciers, the marine communities that would eventually support the rich abundance of the modern Southeast Alaskan coast began to establish themselves.

By 10,300 years ago — the time when Shuká Káa was alive — the island and its surrounding waters had been free of ice for thousands of years.

The marine ecosystem had had time to develop toward the extraordinary biological richness that characterizes the region today.

Salmon would have been running in the rivers and streams.

Herring and other schooling fish would have been abundant in the nearshore waters.

The rocky shorelines would have supported diverse communities of shellfish, sea urchins, and other intertidal organisms.