Number of southern killer whales fell to the lowest level in 46 years

(ORDO NEWS) — The census showed that the so-called L pack, currently numbering 32 killer whales, is at its lowest level since the study began in 1976. Flocks with the letters K and J have 16 and 25, respectively, writes The Seattle Times.

One of the regularly observed killer whales was last seen “greatly emaciated” in the Juan de Fuca Strait in July 2021, according to the research centre. She was declared dead after failing to appear near the other specimens she always interacted with.

Another conspicuous killer whale was alive this spring, but was not seen again in subsequent meetings with the family.

The body of a juvenile killer whale with matching markings was found stranded off the Oregon coast in late June, according to the center. Her identity has not been officially established, the center said.

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