New Orca Calf in Trouble: Scientists Worry

A new orca calf, J61, has joined the endangered southern resident killer whale population in British Columbia. But scientists are concerned about her health. The calf, spotted on December 20 with J pod, is believed to be premature. Her mom, J35 Tahlequah, might not be in the best shape to nurse her. Orca Conservancy says J35 looked thin back in October. The calf's behavior is also unusual. She's been seen staying underwater for a long time, possibly trying to nurse. Researchers are hoping for the best, as J35 has successfully raised two calves before. But the survival rate for these orcas is only 50%. Everyone is keeping a close eye on J61. Scientists are worried about the health of the new orca calf, J61, in British Columbia. The calf, first seen on December 20 with the endangered southern resident killer whale family, J pod, is believed to be premature. Her mother, J35 Tahlequah, might not be in the best condition to feed her. Researchers have noticed the calf staying underwater for long periods, possibly trying to nurse. J35 has raised two calves before, but the survival rate for these orcas is low. Everyone is hoping for the best. The population of southern resident killer whales in British Columbia has been dropping. In November, it was reported that an adult male and a calf were missing, presumed dead. This brought the population to its lowest since 2020, at 72. So, the news of the new calf, J61, brought some hope. But scientists are worried about her health. The calf is believed to be premature, and her mother, J35 Tahlequah, might not be in the best shape to raise her. Researchers have seen the calf staying underwater for a long time, which could mean she's trying to nurse. J35 has successfully raised two calves before, but the survival rate for these orcas is only 50%. Everyone is crossing their fingers for J61.