VIDEO: B.C. orcas welcome new calf, microphone captures newborn's 'first words'

For those who follow the fate of B.C.’s endangered southern resident killer whales, the roller-coaster journey is often a mix of sorrow and cautious celebration.

Just days after grieving the loss of a newborn orca, scientists confirmed the arrival of another calf.

Researchers from SeaDoc Society and San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance spotted the calf Sept. 18, swimming in Puget Sound alongside the J16s – a family group of four adults.

“This new calf … appeared to be in good body condition and was seen surfacing often in close proximity to grandmother, J16 and uncle, J26,” said a social media post by Washington-based SeaDoc Society.

Researchers from SeaDoc Society and San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance spotted a new southern resident calf travelling among the J16s, Sept. 18. SeaDoc Society/F