AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

The Orca a/k/a Killer Whale

Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

As one of the most powerful predators in the world, they are the largest dolphin. Having distinct black-and-white coloring, these animals weigh up to 11 tons with a length of up to 32 feet. Lifespan can be up to 90 years. These smart and social creatures communicate underwater using echolocation. Disruption to the ocean’s natural existence could influence communications and negatively alter their lives.

Hunting/Diet: Orcas usually frequent the cold, coastal waters, but are no strangers to the regions at the Equator. Their size and efficient hunting skills allow them access to a diverse diet of fish, seals, penguins, squid, and whales, to name a few. Their hunting is skillful.

Reproduction: With a 17-month pregnancy, the mother gives birth anywhere from three to 10 years. The young nurse for up to two years, then may leave the pod to make their own way. In some pods the juvenile will live with the family indefi nitely.

Captivity: SeaWorld became famous for its entertainment using orca. Many came from the wild, while other were bred at SeaWorld. So far, SeaWorld is responsible for the deaths of 174 orcas. As of March 10, 2023, there are still 62 orcas in captivity at

SeaWorld with the oldest, Ulises, who was captured on November 7, 1980. He was 3 years old. As of 2022, he is the oldest (46 years) male orca in captivity.

Orcas who died for the sake of ‘entertainment’ – a partial listing: Chappy, Jumbo, Zero, King, Caren, Freyja, Maggie, Oscar, Sarah, Shamu, Kandu, Kilroy, Orky, Nootka, Winston, Kona, Frankie, Canuck, Kandu, Shawn, Bjossa, Baby Shamu, Splash, Sumar, Ramu, Kandu, Sandy, Kalina, Kenau, Gudrun, Taima, Nyar, Winnie, Kahan, Kotar, Haida, Samoa, Katerina, Taku, Halyn, Nakai, Amaya, Tilikum, Kyara, Nakai, Skyla, Belen, Hoi Wai, Hyak, Chimo, Bingo, Juliet, Kt/Taku, Junior, Kandu V, Kanduke, Kasatka, Katy, Kayla, Keiko, Kim (Oum), Kim II, Kiska, Kohana, Kyara, Moby Doll, Namu, Neocia, Nepo, Samoa. Slana, Splash, Spooky, Taku, Unna, Vigga, Skana, Wanda, Winston, Yaka. There were multiple stillborn, days-old, euthanized, miscarriages, who were identified as ‘No Name.’ I gathered the information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732244-2768.

It’s illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without the proper state/federal permits is illegal. Violating laws protecting wildlife is punishable by law.

Craft And Vendor Fair

JACKSON – Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Co. #1 Station 55 is looking for crafters and new merchandise vendors for the 14th Annual Craft and Vendor Fair on, Novem- ber 5. This is an indoor event and 8ft tables are provided $50. Email sta55events@ gmail.com for more information with products you sell.

Jackson EMS Seeking Volunteers

JACKSON – Make a difference in your community! Jackson Township EMS is currently seeking volunteers. No experience needed. Must be 16 years or older. Free fi rst aid training. Learn skills for life. Now hiring EMTs. Paid holidays. Healthcare benefits. Competitive pay. Flexible schedule. To apply, visit JTFAS.org.

Food Trucks & Fireworks

JACKSON – Township of Jackson is hosting Food Trucks & Fireworks on July 9 from 4 to 9 p.m. at Johnson Park, 200 Kierych Memorial Drive.

Live music by “Nine Deez Nite.” Enjoy food trucks, giveaways, NJ, and fi reworks at dusk. Free admission and free parking. For more information call 732-928-1260.

Firefi ghters Extinguish Major Blaze At Local UPS Facility

By Alyssa Riccardi

LAKEWOOD – Firefighters have extinguished a major fire that broke out at a UPS facility in Lakewood on June 28. According to police, the warehouse as well as six trailers at the UPS Customer Center caught on fire, possibly destroying hundreds of packages.

By around 8 p.m., Lakewood Police

Captain Gregory Staffordsmith confirmed that the fire was under control. However, Vassar Avenue was completely shut down due to the fire.

At this time, the fire is under investigation by the Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office. Staffordsmith said that the cause and origin of the fire has not yet been determined.