Featured Image Credit: PWWA
Woah baby!
Crews from the Pacific Whale Watching Association are thrilled to report that there are EIGHT orca whale calves splishing and splashing off the coast of Washington State. Whale done gang!
The bouncing baby orcas appear to be both happy and healthy! This is great news for the whole U.S. orca whale population. A couple of years ago, after several killer whales were found deceased, the mammals were petitioned to be listed on the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Thankfully, these eight calves are calming the extinction concern.
Female killer whales reach sexual maturity around 10 years-old and their gestation period can last as long as 18 months. The current U.S. whale population can produce about nine calves per year, with a female producing one calf every five years. However, due to high mortality rates, the yearly average is closer to three calves. Eek.
If a baby orca survives the first year out of their mother’s womb, then there is still only a 50/50 chance that they reach adulthood. Considering killer whales are such a powerful animal, these statistics are shocking. Orcas eat other marine mammals like seals or even smaller whales, but since no other animals dare to prey upon them, they’re considered an apex predator.
Call it a miracle or simply blame it on their natural dominance, we’re rooting for these cute kiddos!
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