The Orca a/k/a Killer Whale

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 fi sh, 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 732-244-2768.

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.

2023 Flea & Craft Markets

BARNEGAT – The Barnegat Historical Society is currently seeking vendors for their 2023 Flea & Craft Markets.

Markets will be on July 29 and August 26 opening at 8 a.m. at The Barnegat Public Dock located at the end of East Bay Avenue near the gazebo.

Spaces are $20 for 20’x20’ vending spot. Setup time is 5 a.m. Fees benefit the Barnegat Historical Society.

Fired Up Car Show

STAFFORD – The Stafford Township Volunteer Fire Company is bringing back it’s Fired Up Car Show on August 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Come out and see dozens of antique cars in our parking lot on Stafford Avenue. Food and drinks will be available for purchase from the Ladies Auxiliary. For more information or to register contact Rico by email: Firedupcarshow@gmail.com.