To further emphasize the significance of the possible loss of L85, a recent study noted that every birth and death make a 1% difference to this population’s size. One percent may sound small, but NOAA’s recovery plan is for 3% growth, and yet that’s not been achieved after nearly 20 years on the Endangered Species list.
Yet beyond population size, what also matters is how long these whales live. Older females are the holders of ecological knowledge and act as grandmothers and protectors and providers for their sons so they grow big and healthy. She ensures her son is a prime candidate in the mating selection process. Yet of the oldest males living today, only J26 Mike has a mother to keep him healthy.
L85 is one of five surviving males born in the early 1990s. In fact, at 33, he’s one of the oldest. This fact is in itself troubling. Where 30 was once considered middle-aged, we are increasingly losing males in their prime. L85 is known to have fathered one calf, but of his surviving age cohort in their early 30s, only J26 is a known father. Of concern is that the next oldest male K33 Tika is aged just 23.
The absence of L85 is a dire warning that time is running short. The government must provide more salmon for these whales now. It’s essential to raise male lifespan beyond 40—as was previously common. We must ensure that males now in their 20s can thrive and become the next generation of big and healthy suitors to ensure a future for this unique population.
Note: As of July 5, 2023, the Center for Whale Research has not made an official determination as to the final status of L85.
