This is fantastic news, the population of Southern Resident orcas now stands at 79.
Great news! We finally have new calf in L pod. L86 was seen today by the Center for Whale Research (CWR) staff with a brand new calf who will be designated L120. This is the first new calf in the Southern Resident orca population since 2012.
The population has been in decline due to a suite of factors. The scientists point out that salmon availability is probably the main cause, but also included are the effects of toxins in the environment, sound pollution, and boat traffic.
We will be rooting for this little one, and will post photos as soon as possible.