&sq=Qlik&lang=&file=File:Luna_killer_whale.jpg) Luna in Nootka Sound in 2004 | |
| Species | Orca |
|---|---|
| Sex | Male |
| Born | c. 19 September 1999 Puget Sound, Washington, United States |
| Died | 10 March 2006 (aged 6) Nootka Sound, Canada |
| Parent(s) | Splash (L67) (mother) (1985–2008) |
L98 Luna (c. 19 September 1999 – 10 March 2006) also known as Tsux'iit, was an orca born in Puget Sound. After being separated from his mother, Splash (1985–2008) while still young, Luna spent five years in Nootka Sound, an ocean inlet of western Vancouver Island, where he had extensive human contact and became recognized internationally.[1][2]
Although Luna was healthy and his presence in the area attracted extensive publicity, there were concerns that his behavior could endanger watercraft and people. After years of debate, the Canadian Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) authorized an effort in June 2004 to rescue L98 Luna and return him to his pod. The plan was opposed by the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nations, who believed Luna was the reincarnation of a former chief. Remaining alone in Nootka Sound, Luna was killed accidentally by a tugboat propeller on 10 March 2006.