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New calf brings hope for Northwest's endangered orcas

Christine Clarridge

An adult orca swims through choppy blue water with a tiny calf pressed close to her side. The calf's black head, white eye patch and small dorsal fin are visible above the surface amid splashing water. — Baby on board: Photo: Courtesy of the Center for Whale Research/NMFS/NOAA permit 27038

There's a new baby making waves among the endangered Southern Resident orcas.

Why it matters: The little guy is the newest offspring of J35 — also known as Tahlequah, who made global headlines in 2018 for carrying her dead calf on her head for 17 days.

State of play: Researchers with the Center for Whale Research spotted the newborn, designated J65, swimming alongside his mother Monday and again on Tuesday.

Less than a week old, he appears to be nursing, swimming and socializing well, per the center.

Yes, but: Only about half of Southern Resident orca calves survive their first year, researchers say.

The bottom line: We're pulling for you, kid!

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New calf brings hope for Northwest's endangered orcas

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