Killer Whale Nursing Her Calf (IMAGE)

NOAA Fisheries West Coast Region

Killer Whale Nursing Her Calf

Caption

An adult female Southern Resident killer whale (L94) is nursing her calf. Lactation is energetically costly for these whales, and future photogrammetry images of the calf's growth and the mother's condition will reveal if the mother is getting enough food to support both herself and the calf. Note the distinctive saddle patch on the mother. This allows scientists to recognize individual whales in photographs. Taken by UAV from above 90 feet under NMFS research permit and FAA flight authorization. More information and photos at http://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/podcasts/2015/10/uav_killer_whale.html

Credit

NOAA Fisheries, Vancouver Aquarium

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CREDIT: NOAA Fisheries, Vancouver Aquarium

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