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Luna (L98)

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description Luna (L98) Overview

Luna (officially designated L98) was a male Southern Resident orca who became separated from his L-pod family in 2001 and took up residence in Nootka Sound, British Columbia. Living alone for several years, the young whale became famous for his frequent, often dangerous interactions with boats and people in the area. Luna died in 2006 after being struck by the propeller of a tugboat, highlighting the vulnerabilities of isolated marine mammals.

help Luna (L98) FAQ

What does L98 mean in Luna the orca's name?

L98 was Luna's identification code as a male Southern Resident killer whale from the L pod. The name Luna became widely used after he began living alone in British Columbia. [Canada.ca](https://www.canada.ca/en/news/archive/2006/03/killer-whale-killed-accident-believed-luna.html)

Why was Luna living alone in Nootka Sound?

Luna became separated from his L-pod family in 2001 and settled around Nootka Sound on the west coast of Vancouver Island. He was less than two years old when he first appeared there in July 2001. [OrcaLab](https://orcalab.org/blog/luna-dies-march-16th-2006/)

Why did Luna become a problem for boats?

Luna was unusually interested in boats, docks, and people, and his close approaches created safety risks for both the whale and humans. Fisheries and Oceans Canada issued marine advisories and used signs and public education to discourage contact. [Canada.ca](https://www.canada.ca/en/news/archive/2006/03/killer-whale-killed-accident-believed-luna.html)

How did Luna die?

In March 2006, an orca believed to be Luna was killed by a tugboat propeller near Bligh Island in Nootka Sound. The Canadian tug was about 104 feet long, and Fisheries and Oceans Canada investigated the whale's identity. [Canada.ca](https://www.canada.ca/en/news/archive/2006/03/killer-whale-killed-accident-believed-luna.html)

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