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High hopes for Luna reunion

Last Updated: Dec 13 2004 08:44 AM PST

VICTORIA – The family of Luna the orphaned killer whale has been spotted off the west coast of Vancouver Island.

The sighting in early December now raises the hopes of a natural reunion.

Whale researcher Paul Spong says Luna has been heard calling in an area of Nootka Sound. If Luna calls as the pod passes, they will likely go to each other.

“Orcas are very close,” he says. “They’ve bonded to one another. Individual family members stay in their families for life. They retain the calls that they use in their infancy throughout their lives. So Luna, I think, would recognize the pod. The pod would recognize him.”

Spong says it’s the best time of year for a possible reunion. Because it’s off season, Luna won’t be distracted by the fishing boats he’s come to love so much.

Spong believes if a reunion does happen, Luna would likely remain with his pod.

The killer whale has been the focus of a struggle between federal officials and local First Nations.

FROM JUNE 16, 2004: First Nations canoes lure Luna away from capture

The Mowachaht-Muchalaht believe the whale embodies the spirit of their late chief. Mike McQuinna’s father passed away just before Luna appeared.

The band prevented federal officials from capturing and transporting the whale to the pod. But Mcquinna says if it happens naturally, that’s great.

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