The naming of an orca calf is a sensitive and involved process. By the means of soliciting suggestions, sifting through the offerings and choosing the best options, and then serving up the prime choices for heated voting, orcas are endowed with monikers that help elevate them to the most regal of heights within the marine mammal community. These chiefly labels will help the orcas define and express their personalities, strengths and values. Because of this, orca calves must withstand the gauntlet of their first year, so that they have an understanding of the gravity of the naming process and the responsibilities that will be handed to them by the benevolent deities at The Whale Museum in Friday Harbor. Past powerful nom de plumes have been Oreo, Doublestuf, Yoda, Granny and Mike. Clearly awe inspiring.
Earlier this month it was once again time to perform this most precious of rituals and "name the babies". With the most sincere gravity and honor, I would like to present the rubrics bestowed upon the four calves that proved their mettle in this, the life battle of the ocean. Please stand when your name is called:
- J44 "Moby"
- J46 "Star"
- L112 "Sooke"
- L113 "Cousteau"
Let us hear a round of applause for our newest graduates. So, from all of us at San Juan Safaris, to all of you name-droppers out there, thank you and we will...
See You In The Islands!
~Tristen, Naturalist
Orca calf tail fluke