Grieving Orca carries her dead baby for days

[Catherine]

Quote:It is sad that the Orcas are not producing enough healthy young. I don't know enough about that.....what is affecting their breeding? (most likely something humans are doing...)?

 I think pollution and lack of food are big issues. 
We have depleted the Orca's food supply and it is having a long term effect on their reproductive health. I suppose a female Orca who is too thin would have a hard time carrying a baby to term. The baby would be underweight and the mother would not have a good milk supply.

The calf was born alive so the mother did have some time with it. She wouldn't want to let the body go until she was sure the baby's spirit had gone.
I think it is beautiful that the other females stayed with the mother to provide support. They would be grieving too. Their pod has no calves. They must be aware of the problem. Losing their only baby would effect them all.