According to Ocean Ecoventures Whale Watching, renowned experts in organizing whale watching tours, J2 has been actively foraging and swimming alongside the herd in the Strait of Georgia over the past few weeks. Granny, as she is affectionately known, has been identified by the distinctive long white mark on her back. This remarkable whale made her reappearance on July 27, captivating the attention of onlookers and enthusiasts once again. Her presence continues to be a source of fascination and admiration among those who have the privilege of witnessing her majestic journey.
The image of the 105-year-old Granny killer whale was taken in 2014. Photo: Ocean Ecoventures
Granny’s presence has surprised scientists because normally, a killer whale only lives about 60-80 years.
Born a year before the Titanic disaster, Granny is known as the oldest whale in the world. Scientists have been studying Granny since 1971, when Granny was 60 years old. From there, they officially called Granny J2.
A common killer whale has a lifespan of 60-80 years. Photo: Ocean Ecoventures
“It was amazing to see this over 100 year old whale. Granny was born before the Titanic sank. Can you imagine all that Granny has witnessed over the years?” – Mr. Pidcock, an expert from Ocean Ecoventures Whale Watching – shared excitedly.
Scientists have been studying Granny since 1971. Photo Ocean Ecoventures
The average lifespan of a killer whale is 60-80, but other members of Granny’s flock are also reaching advanced ages, including two females Ocean Sun and Lummi who died at the age of 85 and 18, respectively. 98.
