Whale experts plan to rescue baby orca

An orphaned killer whale that has been stranded in Puget Sound since January is about to be rescued, and returned to her family in Canada.

FROM JAN, 31, 2002: Orphan killer whale under observation

Marine officials are planning to herd the two-year-old orca calf officially known as A-73 into a sea pen, where veterinarians will check her over.

She would then be shipped back to the waters of Johnstone Strait off the northeast coast of Vancouver Island, which is the summer fishing ground for her pod.

Vancouver Aquarium president Dr. John Nightingale says the timing is important. "We have to take her to Johnstone Strait, to reintroduce her when her family's there which is late July through early September."

INDEPTH: Orca: A Whale for the Watching

Total cost of the rescue effort is estimated at $500,000, with most of the money expected from the U.S. and Canadian governments.

However, the Aquarium Web site is also appealing for donations to help with the costs of the move.

LINK: Vancouver Aquarium