A grieving orca whale has been seen once again floating with her deceased calf, reminiscent of a past event in 2018 where she carried her dead calf over a thousand miles. According to foreign media reports, near the coast of the U.S., this same orca, who faced a tragic loss in 2018, has lost another calf. This orca was spotted carrying her deceased calf in a similar manner.
Researchers have highlighted this situation as a significant loss for the orca population.
The Center for Whale Research in Washington State revealed that this orca, known as Tahlequah or J35, was seen with her dead calf. Tahlequah represents a rare and endangered population of orcas, with experts expressing concern over the possibility of complete extinction of this species.
Previously, in 2018, this orca made headlines when she carried her dead calf for 17 days at sea. Experts now confirm that two of her offspring have died, leaving her with two living calves—one 14 years old and the other 4 years old.
J61, one of her surviving calves, was born just a few weeks ago, and initially, researchers were hopeful. However, concerns about its health soon emerged.
Scientists explain that the orca continues to carry her deceased calf, and if the body detaches, she dives deep to retrieve it. Experts state that as long as she is capable of performing this act, she will continue to do so.
