World Report: April 17, 1998 Vol.3 No.23
- This Issue:
- Table of Contents
- Cover Story
- Cover Story - Spanish Version
- Mini-Lesson
- Comprehension Quiz
- Teacher's Guide and Worksheets
J.J. Returns To Her Home In The Ocean
On March 31, J.J. the gray whale was released into the Pacific Ocean. After 15 months at Sea World, she had grown to 31 feet and 19,200 pounds!
J.J. traveled by truck 11 miles to the ocean. During the ride, Sea World's animal-care manager Keith Yip stroked J.J.'s bumpy nose and looked into her enormous eyes. "Just saying my goodbyes," he explained.
A boat then carried J.J. to a safe spot offshore and lowered her to the water. She dove into the sea and began to explore her natural home.
So far, J.J. seems to be doing fine. She swims close to shore and is eating well. Biologists hope that she will soon join other gray whales in the area on their annual northern migration. J.J. has lost the electronic markers that tracked her travels, but she can still be spotted by airplane.
