In 2018, an orca named Tahlequah (J35) captured global attention. She carried her deceased calf for 17 days. During this time, she covered more than 1,000 miles of ocean.

Scientists described this heartbreaking journey as a “tour of grief.” It is a profound testament to the depth of love, loss, and emotional bonds within the animal world. These bonds are often far greater than we acknowledge.

Her act of devotion was not only a tribute to her calf. It was also a poignant reflection of the greater struggles her endangered pod continues to face. With declining salmon populations—their primary food source—survival itself hangs in the balance.

Tahlequah’s story is not merely one of sorrow; it is a powerful call to action. It reminds us of the urgent responsibility to protect these magnificent creatures. We must also protect the fragile ecosystems they depend upon before it is too late.

Hena’s Blog For Paws © 2019 by Hena Osman is licensed under CC BY 4.0