Killer Whale Tahlequah, Noted for Carrying Dead Calf in ‘Grief,’ Welcomes Newborn – Experts Express Concerns | US News

A mother killer whale, known as Tahlequah or J35, who famously carried her deceased calf for 17 days as a manifestation of her grief, has recently given birth to a new calf, according to scientists.

In 2018, this orca made headlines when she transported her lifeless infant over 1,000 miles.

However, reports from the Center for Whale Research indicate that last Friday, she was seen swimming with a new calf in the Puget Sound off Washington State’s coast.

A team of researchers confirmed through a Facebook post that they observed the new calf, which has been named J61, and determined it is female.

Despite the joy of the new birth, there are concerns regarding the health of the calf “based on the behavior of both J35 and J61,” the center noted.

“The early days are often precarious for new calves, with a high mortality rate during the first year,” they stated.

“As an experienced mother, we hope J35 can successfully nurture J61 through these challenging initial stages.”

The Orca Conservancy expressed concern in a post on X, highlighting that the calf was seen being pushed around on J35’s head and did not appear very energetic, which raises alarms.

They pointed out that “calf behavior is not fully understood.”

The organization further emphasized that for new calves to thrive, adequate salmon stocks must be restored to levels that support population growth.

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‘Every single birth counts’

The Center for Whale Research reiterated the crucial need for an abundant food supply, particularly salmon, for the survival of the Southern Resident killer whale population. “Access to ample food is essential for these whales to thrive and sustain their calves,” they observed.

“Every single birth is significant, and these whales need sufficient fish to support themselves and their young. Our advocacy for salmon recovery includes habitat restoration, dam removals, and sensible fisheries management in the Pacific Northwest.”

‘Complete shock’ at calf sighting

A nature enthusiast and photographer who first captured the calf on camera remarked to CNN: “My initial reaction upon seeing the calf was pure astonishment.

“While reviewing my photos to identify whales that passed the ferry, I spotted a tiny dorsal fin in one shot.

“As I examined the series further, I realized it was a very small calf, significantly smaller than any other known young ones in the pod.

“Given the calf’s size and color, I recognized it as a new addition accompanying J35, my ‘spark whale,’ the one who sparked my fascination with orcas.”