Lolita Update #27
October 15, 2000

Dear Friends of Lolita~

First we want to thank all those who sent letters to the Miami Herald and Mayor Penelas about the recent dolphin deaths at the Seaquarium. Nothing is certain yet, but there may be more to come in that story.

Some items have come up that many of you might be interested in.

• "Cry of the Orcas" on KOMO TV, Seattle, Tuesday, October 17 at 9 PM

• Plans to take Keiko out to meet his family in early spring

• Plight of the southern community of orcas is featured on MSNBC

"Cry of the Orcas"

KOMO/ABC TV in Seattle will air a special documentary called "The Cry of the Orcas" on Tuesday night at 9PM. Although it will only be seen in the Seattle area, just knowing it will be on is important because it is going to be the most comprehensive treatment yet produced of the true natural history of the orcas that make up Lolita's family.
It will emphasize recent scientific discoveries such as the lifetime bonds between all members of the Southern resident orca community, the social events and greeting ceremonies. Reviews say that Lolita will be mentioned in depth as a member in good standing of her family, regardless of 30 years of separation. Her importance as a potentially reproductive female to help replenish her family after the recent mortalities will also be discussed.
All in all, this documentary sounds like a landmark event in the public's awareness of the amazing capabilities of the species and Lolita's unique role if she is allowed to rejoin her family.

Keiko out in early spring

In a recent statement Ocean Futures announced plans to take Keiko for longer ocean walks beginning in early spring.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT
October 11, 2000 Valerie Bohonus
(805) 899-8899 X101

KEIKO'S WINTER 'QUARTERS' REINFORCED IN ADVANCE OF CONTINUED SPRING 2001 REINTRODUCTION EFFORTS
Quotes "In the early Spring, weather permitting, Keiko will continue a series of ocean walks designed to continue his reintroduction to the wild."
"In early spring we will move into a new phase of our program where we intend to be with Keiko on the open ocean for extended periods with the help of a more suitable ocean going research vessel."

Plight of the southern orca community

Below is the URL for a recent MSNBC story on the well-being of the southern community. Though much of the story concerns boat/whale interactions, it makes it clear that the most effective way to ensure that orcas remain in Washington waters is to devote our full energies to restoring salmon to provide adequate food. Click here for the MSNBC story. (Note: linked article no longer exists)

Headline Pacific Northwest orcas are a magnet for tourists but the "southern resident" population has declined from 98 five years ago to 82 today.

'Endangered' help sought for orcas
Scientists cite sharp drop in Pacific Northwest population
By Miguel Llanos - MSNBC

Much is going on to help bring Lolita home and to inform and advocate for her and her family Please consider a tax-deductible contribution to help Orca Network continue this work. Thank you!