Loro Parque joyously announces the arrival of a new orca calf, the offspring of Morgan, who resides at the facility, underlining the organisation’s dedication to the welfare and preservation of these remarkable marine mammals.
The calf was born early on Monday at 5:00 a.m., with essential staff present to ensure the well-being of both mother and calf. Following the birth, both are in excellent health, and the mother has shown a strong maternal instinct, caring for her young with great enthusiasm. They are currently housed in a specially designed area, apart from the other orcas, aimed at maximising the safety of both mother and calf.
The Loro Parque team is fully aware of the challenges that may arise after the birth of any creature. Therefore, continuous monitoring of the calf’s progress will be conducted, particularly during the initial months of life. Orca calves are born with an underdeveloped immune system and rely on antibodies from the mother’s milk, which results in a mortality rate for cetaceans in the wild of approximately 50%.
In this regard, the new calf will remain with its mother in a dedicated zone where it will receive constant care until it is prepared to join the rest of the orca family living at Loro Parque.
“The entire Loro Parque team is overjoyed by this news. We have been preparing for months to ensure a smooth delivery. All animal births are extraordinary, but an orca’s birth is especially significant. Our team of caregivers, veterinarians, and scientists will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that the new calf has a secure home and thrives among the other orcas,” stated Wolfgang Kiessling, President of the Loro Parque Group. “This birth stands as a testament to the commitment and expertise of our team.”
Morgan / LP
Morgan, the calf’s mother, represents the conservation efforts of Loro Parque. She was rescued in 2010 after being stranded along the coast of the Netherlands in a precarious state, and was transferred to Loro Parque after a thorough assessment by experts, who concluded that this was the ideal location to ensure her long-term welfare.
Since her arrival in 2011 and with the dedicated care of the Loro Parque team, Morgan has made a full recovery and has integrated seamlessly into the orca community at the park. It was found that she was deaf, presenting a unique challenge for her adaptation. In response, trainers devised an innovative communication method using light signals, enabling her to interact effectively with her caregivers.
“Morgan’s arrival at our facility saved her life. She became part of the orca group we had at the zoo, and today we have a beautiful calf swimming alongside her. We have given life and joy to an animal that would have had no chance in the wild,” he added, “we ensure that all animals in our care experience the five freedoms.”
Loro Parque reiterates its commitment to the conservation of marine life, research and education, providing first-rate care for the animals under its stewardship. This birth reinforces the vital role of accredited zoos in protecting endangered species and raising awareness about the importance of ocean preservation.
