VICTORIA — Researchers are investigating the discovery of a dead female orca calf found near Vancouver Island in U.S. waters. The calf was reportedly still attached to its umbilical cord, raising questions about its condition at the time of death.

Michael Weiss, research director at the Center for Whale Research, stated that it remains unclear whether the calf was stillborn or died shortly after birth. He noted that researchers cannot pinpoint a specific cause for the calf's death, but they are concerned about the overall health of the southern resident orca population.

Weiss highlighted that low reproductive success in this population is linked to high levels of pollutants, particularly industrial chemicals known as PCBs. These pollutants can impair immune and reproductive functions. Additionally, a lack of prey, especially Chinook salmon, which are the preferred food source for orcas, poses a significant threat to their survival.

On Friday, researchers confirmed reports of an orca pushing the deceased calf in Rosario Strait, which separates the San Juan Islands from the mainland of Washington State. The calf was described as either full term or near full term based on its size.

The orca pushing the calf has been identified as southern resident J36, also known as Alki. This information was provided by the Orca Conservancy, a Seattle-based organization. The calf is believed to have been born within the last three days, according to the last observation of J36.

Both Canada and the United States classify southern resident orcas as endangered. Currently, there are only 74 members in this population, which is divided into three pods: J, K, and L. The Center for Whale Research has indicated that it will provide further updates as more information becomes available.

Several organizations, including SeaDoc Society, Sealife Response, Rehabilitation and Research, and the Whale Museum, are also involved in the investigation.