The orca calf born at Loro Parque continues to grow strongly, showing independence and curiosity, but remains attached to his mother, under the care of the Animal Embassy team.
Teno, the orca calf born last March at Loro Parque, continues to develop very positively. Although he maintains a close relationship with his mother, Morgan, his caretakers are observing clear signs of independence and exploration of his surroundings, which is a fundamental indicator at this stage of growth.
Wolfgang Kiessling, president of the Loro Parque Group, emphasises that “Teno’s birth has been a gift for all of us who love and defend nature. His development fills us with hope and reaffirms our commitment to animal welfare and species conservation. Seeing him grow strong, alongside his mother, under the care of our team, is a testament to the love and dedication we put into Loro Parque every day.”
“The fact that Teno is nursing normally is vitally important, as calves obtain most of their antibodies through their mother’s milk,” explains Daniel Martín, orca trainer at Loro Parque. “To ensure this process, we have adjusted Morgan’s diet, increasing her fish intake by 30% so that she can adequately feed her calf.”
During the first few weeks, the Animal Embassy trainers closely monitored Teno’s behaviour, especially his breathing and nursing. “At first, we recorded many short attempts; now we see fewer but longer attempts, which indicates that he is learning and improving in this process,’ adds Martín.
One of the most visible effects of this healthy development is the evident increase in size. Although it has not yet been possible to weigh him, the team is observing sustained growth at a visual level.
Furthermore, Teno is beginning to show more interest in the training sessions he does with his mother. “In each session, we have a caretaker dedicated exclusively to him. It is essential that he sees us as a figure of trust and well-being,” says Martín.
Although it is still too early to begin his full integration with the rest of the orca group, it is expected that in the coming months he will begin to interact with other members. This new stage will also see a gradual transition to a fish-based diet, similar to that of adults.
Soon, visitors to Loro Parque will be able to witness this exciting process up close and witness the close mother-son relationship of this iconic species in the educational presentations offered by the Animal Embassy.
