K-7 was last seen by Center for Whale Research staff on Oct. 30, 2007 in Haro Strait. K-7’s last known sighting was in Puget Sound on Dec. 23 by Brad Hanson of the Northwest Fisheries Science Center. - Courtney Smith / Center for Whale Research
Courtney Smith / Center for Whale Research
K-7 was last seen by Center for Whale Research staff on Oct. 30, 2007 in Haro Strait. K-7’s last known sighting was in Puget Sound on Dec. 23 by Brad Hanson of the Northwest Fisheries Science Center.

Special tribute Friday for oldest orca K7


September 26, 2008 · Updated 8:19 AM 

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She was believed to be the oldest whale in the Southern Resident Killer Whale community.

The Center for Whale Research, who estimates her birth year as 1910, designated her K7. She was given the name “Lummi” through The Whale Museum’s Orca Adoption Program. Lummi was a great-great grandmother – the leader of a five-generation intact family. She did not return to the Salish Sea with her K pod family this year.

Join Orca Network and The Whale Museum at Lime Kiln Point State Park lighthouse on Friday, 6 p.m., to celebrate the life of this whale and pay tribute to her. Hear about the life of Lummi from those who knew her, and join in a special tribute by the Ohileq-sen Canoe Family from the Lummi Nation.

Local artist Jocelyn Russell has donated an original painting of K7 to be auctioned off at the event, complete with custom framing donated by San Juan Gallery and Framing.

For more information, contact Cindy Hansen at 378-4710, ext. 23, or e-mail cindy@whalemuseum.org

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