Luna Sustains New Injuries

Sunday, October 3, 2004
GOLD RIVER, BC - Luna returned to the docks at Gold River yesterday. He spent time foraging and playing in the harbour as well as rubbing against boats at the dock.

While rubbing against boats, it became apparent to observers that Luna has sustained some new cuts that are located on his pectoral fin and his dorsal fin. The wounds on his pectoral fin apparently look like boat propeller strikes, according to observers. The injury to his dorsal fin was described as a series of nicks. There were no signs of bleeding.

The Joint Stewardship Plan, operated by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nations (MMFN), have been contacted regarding this information. As soon as DFO or the MMFN provide an update, it will be posted here.

Last August, Luna sustained a cut above his eye. About two weeks later, he sustained another cut. Both injuries healed well.

Luna is a young, healthy whale and the likelihood of a serious infection resulting from these injuries is small. His behaviour yesterday seemed to be consistent with previous activities. Killer whales in the wild often sustain cuts and abrasions that heal naturally.

Meanwhile, there was a steady stream of about six to eight people going down to the lower docks to watch Luna throughout the afternoon yesterday. It is apparent that the “DFO Luna Killer Whale Hazard” signs, which were to be installed as part of the Joint Luna Stewardship Plan, have either not been installed or have not been effective. At one point, a local resident had to go down to the lower dock and ask some parents to get their children away from Luna and off the lower dock.

Incidents such as the new cuts Luna has sustained, and persistent human engagement reinforce the need for a reunification this year. The Joint Stewardship Plan must accept responsibility for the full time monitoring and protection of Luna.

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