Northern Residents Visit Nootka Sound

Monday, February 28, 2005
GOLD RIVER, BC – A group of Northern Resident orcas visited Nootka Sound yesterday.

It is believed that Luna heard them, though he didn't join them. It is very unlikely that Luna would join a group of orcas from a completely different community.

However, the fact that "resident" orcas visited Nootka Sound suggests that a completely "natural" reunion for Luna is possible. Luna's presence in Nootka Sound suggests that Southern Resident orcas also visit the area from time to time. If they do, and Luna hears them, he and the other orcas may well solve the "problem" of reunification on their own.

If Northern Resident orcas casually enter Nootka Sound, it probably means that they are familiar with the space. Likewise, Southern Residents are also probably familiar with the space - Luna's presence indicates that they visit Nootka Sound at least occasionally. How often visits happen is a matter of conjecture, but the fact is that they do sometimes happen.

It was very unlikely that Luna would have joined a group so distant from his own, so his return to a solitary existence is not surprising. However, if Southern Resident orcas come into Nootka Sound, it would not be surprising if Luna recognizes and joins them.

The question is how long it will be before that event happens? No one knows, of course, but yesterday's events encourage hope.

Meanwhile, the summer boating season is approaching and there has been very little progress on implementing an effective monitoring/stewardship program. Last fall, Canada’s Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) and the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nations participated in a Joint Stewardship project, however, the money ran out and the project ended in November.

An effective monitoring program needs to be put in place soon, both for public safety and for Luna’s safety.

Source: www.ReuniteLuna.com

For More Information: