An endangered orca from the Pacific Northwest, known as Tahlequah or J35, is once again making headlines due to her deep display of grief. This follows the tragic death of her new calf, and it serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by this remarkable species.
According to the Center for Whale Research in Washington state, J35 has been seen carrying the body of her deceased female calf since Wednesday. The team at the research center expressed their sorrow over the situation and plans to keep the public informed with updates as they can.
This is not the first time J35 has shown such heartbreaking behavior. In 2018, she gained international attention for carrying her dead calf for 17 sorrowful days, covering more than 1,000 miles. That calf had died shortly after birth, and J35 and her pod members took turns carrying the lifeless body as a testament to their strong familial bonds.
About two weeks before this recent tragedy, researchers had identified a new calf, but concerns arose regarding its health. By New Year’s Day, Brad Hanson, a research scientist with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, confirmed that J35 was seen with her calf’s lifeless body. He observed her behavior and noted she was trying to keep her calf close, diving for it when it slipped beneath the water.
Experts suggest that J35 is indeed mourning, similar to other social animals like primates and dolphins. The mortality rate for orca calves is concerning—only 20% survive to their first birthday. Michael Weiss, research director at the Center for Whale Research, indicated that J35 has now tragically lost two out of her four documented calves, making her situation particularly heartrending.
The southern resident killer whale population, which consists of three pods, is in serious decline, currently counting only about 73 individuals. These majestic creatures primarily feed on Chinook salmon, whose dwindling numbers, alongside pollution and loud vessel traffic, pose significant challenges to their survival. Researchers warn that without effective intervention, these orcas are on the brink of extinction.
While the news surrounding J35 is grim, there is a slight glimmer of hope as another calf from her pod, known as J62, has been observed alive.
Southern resident orcas are unique in their diet, primarily consuming salmon rather than other marine mammals. Each orca can be identified by its distinct markings and fin shapes, and they travel in family groups, often showcasing their playful nature in the waters of Puget Sound. Their situation is a call to action for conservation efforts to ensure that these incredible animals do not fade into history.
