Tahlequah, the orca known for carrying her dead calf for 17 days back in 2018, is once again facing the grief of loss. This time, her mourning is tied to the death of her second calf, J61, which was observed by scientists from the Center for Whale Research off the coast of Seattle.
The heartbreaking sight was reported on January 1, 2025, as researchers noted Tahlequah displaying the same sorrowful behaviors she exhibited seven years ago. Instead of abandoning her deceased calf, she is seen pushing the body with her nose, occasionally grasping it with her mouth, much like she did back when she lost her first newborn. This tragic repetition of mourning has drawn emotional responses from the public and conservationists alike.
According to the Center for Whale Research, "This behavior was already observed with J35 when she carried her deceased calf for 17 days." Ken Balcomb, the founder of the Center, added, "It’s a very tragic mourning period," emphasizing the emotional toll on this vulnerable species.
The news has struck deep not only for Tahlequah but also for the Southern Resident orca population, now numbered at only about 70 individuals. Their dwindling numbers are concerning due to multiple threats, which include diminished food availability, noise pollution from vessels, and environmental contaminants. A recent report by Anaïs Remili outlines these threats, stating, "The beginning of life is always dangerous for calves, with very high mortality rates during the first year." Such challenges amplify the tragedy of Tahlequah's loss.
Just days before the reported loss of J61, scientists had welcomed the arrival of another calf, J62, who appears to be healthy. This birth brought temporary joy amid the sorrow, showcasing the duality of life for these marine mammals. While J62's existence offers some hope—"We’re cautiously optimistic about this new calf," remarked one researcher—every loss weighs heavily on the small population.
The emotional complexity of Tahlequah's behavior is not just heart-wrenching; it shines light on the intelligent social structures of orcas. These creatures are known for their rich emotional lives, exhibiting behaviors akin to human mourning and connection. "That's heartbreaking," expressed Remili, pointing to the hope each new birth carries but highlighting the fears surrounding survival and loss.
The Southern Resident orcas, including Tahlequah's J pod, communicate through distinct dialects, showcasing their unique identities and social bonds. Sadly, the orca population has decreased from 97 individuals nearly three decades ago, primarily due to human activities impacting their habitats and prey availability. Remili noted, "This population of orcas is threatened by several factors: lack of food, human noise, and pollution. Each death resonates deeply within the remaining community." The environment they inhabit presents unique challenges, compounded by the interconnectivity of their social structures.
With each mourning period, the plight of these orcas becomes more pronounced, urging humanity to reflect on our influence over their existence. Tahlequah's story, marked by incredible resilience and deep sorrow, is pivotal for raising awareness about the broader struggles facing the Southern Resident orcas.
Conservationists and researchers continue to rally support for efforts to protect this endangered group, emphasizing the importance of restoring salmon populations and mitigating disturbances from marine traffic.
Understanding the individual stories of these orcas—like Tahlequah's—humanizes the broader narrative of their species' survival. Tahlequah, now losing two of her four calves, embodies both the beauty and tragedy inherent within the natural world. Addressing the challenges these orcas face requires both emotional and logistical responses, recognizing their plight ensures Tahlequah's legacy—and those of her kin—won’t be forgotten.