Rescue of Orca Calf “Brave Little Hunter” in Vancouver Island
A lost orca (killer whale) calf, stranded for weeks in a shallow Vancouver Island lagoon in western Canada, dodging multiple rescue attempts, swam free on Friday (Apr 26), according to the Ehattesaht First Nation.
Rescue Efforts
- The Ehattesaht First Nation monitored the situation of the stranded orca calf, named “Brave Little Hunter,” after her mother’s tragic death in late March.
- Collaboration with fisheries officials for the release of the calf in open waters was unsuccessful.
- Rescue attempts included using a sling, playing recorded killer whale verbal communication, and serenading her with violin music.
Successful Release
At 2:30 am local time on Friday, during high tide, the orca calf swam free, passing significant landmarks and eventually reaching Esperanza Inlet on her own.
A small group witnessed her journey, enjoying moments of breaching and playing as she moved towards open waters.
Reunion with Family
The team caught up with the orca calf in Esperanza Inlet, aiming to guide her towards the open ocean for a potential reunion with her family.
Authorities have urged the public to stay clear of the area to facilitate the calf’s reunion with her kin.