🌊Orcas!🌊

Although orcas are known commonly as one of the scarier creatures of the ocean, not all of their intelligence is devoted to killing and destruction. While these large, magnificent creatures may be cruel at times, they are also surprisingly empathetic. One of the most grievous things that can happen to a mother is losing her child, and the sentiment carries over to other species as well. Elephants are known to mourn for their deceased offspring, as well as a few other species, but something about the way Orcas mourn dead calves seemed particularly touching.

A baby orca’s mother will sometimes ‘float’ her dead calf, and while some people believe it’s the mother just thinking her calf in unconscious and trying to help it breathe, other believe this is how they grieve, and this theory is even further strengthened by the fact that sometimes the rest of the pod will try to help float the dead calf as well, taking turn as they keep swimming. This can sometimes continue for weeks! If a ruthless killer whale can show such love to her offspring, how much more does the Creator of the universe love us? “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.” (Matt 10: 29-31)

- Mello

4/16/25