New Bigg’s Baby!

Images courtesy of Brendon Bissonnette

Off the shores of Bentinck Island, a group of five killer whales showed off the latest addition to the Bigg’s population! Our captain, Mark Malleson, spotted the whales on March 6th, 2024 as they moved westward in the Strait of Juan de Fuca close to the shoreline and against a picturesque backdrop.

Keen observation of the group revealed the presence of the T071Bs, T086A3, and a delightful addition—a newborn calf! The calf assumed the echelon position next to 13-year-old T086A3, affectionately named “Tyndall,” highlighting a possible bond between the pair.

While the official confirmation of the calf’s mother awaits future encounters, initial assessments suggest that T086A3 might have welcomed her first-known offspring into the world. We’re happy to report that the calf exhibited signs of good health, bringing optimism and joy to both our captain and our lucky guests!

Notably, this possible addition to the T086A matriline follows the birth of another calf born to older sister T086A1 “Nahanni,” in September 2023, indicating a positive trend in the growth of their lineage. This succession of new generations underscores the resilience and vitality of the Bigg’s killer whale population, offering hope for their continued presence and prosperity in the region’s waters.

Each encounter with these remarkable creatures emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts in safeguarding their future. The birth of each new calf adds to the legacy of Bigg’s killer whales, deepening our understanding of their social dynamics and nurturing our appreciation for these wonderful animals!