New Southern Resident Orca Calf spotted days after tragic loss

Researchers have confirmed the birth of a new calf to the endangered southern resident killer whales, just days after another newborn was lost. The calf, believed to be the first for 18-year-old Echo (J42), was observed Sept. 18 swimming in Puget Sound with the J16 family group and appeared healthy and close to its grandmother and uncle. The birth follows the grief of Echo’s sister Alki (J36), who lost her calf only days earlier. With fewer than 75 southern residents remaining and calf survival rates around 50% in the first year, scientists stress cautious optimism. Hydrophones detected mispronounced calls hours before the sighting, likely the newborn’s “first words,” offering a rare moment of hope for the fragile population.