A young killer whale calf from one of the long-tracked southern resident pods is missing and presumed dead, according to the latest findings by the Center for Whale Research.
Based in Friday Harbor, Wash., the research group closely follows the J pod as it navigates the Swanson Channel in British Columbia’s Gulf Islands. Their observations on Oct. 23 revealed the absence of the calf known as J64, who should have been with its mother, J42.
Despite hopes that the calf might be nearby, feeding or with another group, the team found no trace of the young whale during their encounter.
The organization sadly speculates that the missing calf, J64, has likely passed away, given the lack of sightings and the mother’s behavior. Their standard protocol considers a whale deceased if it hasn’t been seen in three consecutive encounters, especially considering the challenges faced by newborns, particularly those from first-time mothers, within the southern resident orca population.
Highlighting the fragile nature of these young calves, the researchers point to issues such as poor nutrition and the transfer of toxins from mother to calf during critical stages like gestation and lactation.
With this recent update, the Center for Whale Research maintains its diligent monitoring of the southern resident pods, reaffirming their commitment to the well-being of these iconic marine species.