Headline:
endangered-species-conservation/southern-resident-killer-whale-orcinus-orca” title=”Southern Resident Killer Whale (Orcinus orca) | NOAA Fisheries”>Orca Tahlequah Welcomes New Calf, Bringing Hope to Endangered Southern Resident Population
Article:
In a heartening turn of events, Tahlequah, the orca whale known for carrying her dead calf in 2018, has given birth to a new calf. The calf, identified as J61, was spotted on December 20 in the Puget Sound area, Washington.
Tahlequah, also known as J35, gained international attention when she carried her deceased newborn for 17 days, anecdotally mourning its loss. The heartbreaking display highlighted the precarious state of the southern resident orca population, which is listed as endangered in both Canada and the United States.
The Center for Whale Research confirmed the birth, expressing optimism yet concern about the calf’s survival. "The first days of life are critical for these calves," the center stated on Facebook. "J35 is an experienced mother, and we hope she can keep J61 alive during these challenging times."
However, the center also underscored the urgent need for adequate food supply, stressing that a healthy salmon population is vital for the survival of these orcas. The southern resident orcas primarily feed on Chinook salmon, the population of which has significantly declined.
This is the third calf for Tahlequah, who bravely endured the loss of two calves in the past. Her son, J57, born in 2020, and another son, J47, are both members of J Pod.
While the birth of J61 signals a glimmer of hope, it also underscores the ongoing threat to the southern resident orca population. In recent years, the population has faced challenges due to contaminants, vessel disturbance, and insufficient food supply.
Photo Captions:
Featured Image:
Tahlequah, the orca whale who gained international attention for carrying her dead calf in 2018, has given birth to a new calf. (REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon/File Photo)
Additional Image:
Two years after the loss of her calf, Tahlequah gave birth to a new orca, bringing renewed hope to the endangered southern resident population. (Illustrative: Ecologistas en Acción)
