An Orca’s Heartbreaking Grief: Tahlequah Mourns Another Dead Calf
After capturing the world’s attention with her two-week “tour of grief” for her dead calf, Tahlequah, also known as J35, is once again mourning the loss of another newborn in the same heart-wrenching manner. A recent photo shows her carrying the deceased calf on her back through Washington state’s Puget Sound, mirroring her actions from seven years ago, according to the Center for Whale Research.
Witnesses observed Tahlequah with the lifeless calf on her head, diving for it when it sank below the surface, as reported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
The newborn, identified as J61, an endangered Southern Resident killer whale, lived for only about a week before passing away several days ago. This is the second loss out of four births for Tahlequah, who is approximately 25 years old.
While other Southern Resident orcas have been seen carrying dead calves, none have done so for as long as Tahlequah. In 2018, she carried her calf’s body for 17 days.
Dr. Michael Weiss, research director at the Center for Whale Research, commented on Tahlequah’s behavior, stating, “It does seem to suggest that there’s something about her as an individual that makes this behavior more prominent. We don’t know what that would be.”
Researchers continue to monitor Tahlequah, who is currently unable to forage for food as she dedicates her energy to carrying the 300-pound carcass. Her pod members, including her sister, have been supporting her through this difficult time.
Despite the tragic loss of J61, another birth was announced within the pod, bringing both joy and sorrow to the Southern Resident killer whale community. The new calf appears to be healthy and normal, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the challenges they face.
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