This month I’ve been thinking about pregnancy and gestation—of Southern Resident Killer Whales (SRKWs). Those of you who’ve followed my blog for a while know that, along with thousands of people, I’m working to protect this endangered species. News of three pregnancies in J, K, and L pods offers some hope for these mammals and their southern residence, the Salish Sea.
One of the people I rely on for help to protect the Salish Sea is my friend, wild animal veterinarian Joe Gaydos. I talked with Joe about his work a couple of weeks ago for an upcoming profile, and I was again moved by his passion for animals, for science, and the Salish Sea. He also has a wicked sense of humor that helps me—and likely himself—get through some bleak times.
Whenever I need Joe’s brand of knowledge mixed with laughter, I tune in to Salish Sea Wild. This periodic video series, written and produced by Bob Friel and the Sea Doc Society, stars Joe—and the wild animals of the Salish Sea. The videos always remind me of the role we all play in protecting this rich ecosystem. I hope you’ll join the audience.
*Afterthoughts are my blog version of a practice followed in some Quaker meetings. After meeting for worship ends, people continue in silence for a few more minutes during which they’re invited to share thoughts or reflect on the morning’s worship. I’ve adopted the form here for last-day-of-the-month brief reflections on headlines, quotes, books, previous posts, maybe even bumper stickers and refrigerator magnets.
Iris Graville - Author 